health 8 - The Latremie Post

Alternative financing for human capital

An analysis of the public expenditure reviews from 2017-22 reveals that child-focused spending by provincial governments is not aligned with their budgetary commitments. Public finance constraints, driven by large debt servicing expenditures, are curtailing social sector investment. Currently, public spending on education is limited to only 2% of GDP, health at 1%, and social protection at 1%.

The future of nearly 40% of our population—currently below the age of 18—is at stake due to inadequate investment in human capital development. According to the IMF, Pakistan faces a social sector financing gap equivalent to 16.1% of its GDP to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Although fiscal deficits improved with the Extended Fund Facility, public finance remains insufficient to meet UN benchmarks and the required social sector spending.

**Revenue Distribution and Fiscal Challenges**

The revenue distribution mechanism under the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award is equally important, as the provinces rely heavily on federal transfers for social spending. Besides debt repayments, low-to-moderate GDP growth, and limited revenue generation, other factors aggravate the fiscal challenge. These include covariate shocks such as recurring climate disasters and demographic pressure.

Consequently, about 26 million children are currently out of school. Multi-dimensional poverty has surged to 40% of the population, meaning any further reduction in social spending risks pushing more people into intergenerational poverty.

Amid global austerity measures, official development assistance (ODA) sharply declined in 2025. Therefore, it is increasingly important for federal and provincial governments, alongside civil society, to diversify financing sources and develop expertise in alternative financing for sustainable social sector investments. New policy instruments and innovative models must be adopted to expand fiscal space.

**A Paradigm Shift in Social Spending**

There is a pressing need to approach social spending as an investment in future generations. Traditional views often perceive social spending as charity or welfare, which is no longer adequate to meet the scale of Pakistan’s challenges. A fundamental paradigm shift is required to reconceptualize this spending as a high-return investment in future human capital.

—

### Policy Instruments and Reforms

1. **Redesign Financing Structures with Results-Based Approaches**

Financing strategies should be multi-layered, integrating traditional and non-traditional financing models as well as international funding aligned with national goals and medium-term budget frameworks. Incorporating results-based financing treats social spending as a high-return investment in human capital.

This shift will pave the way to expand the fiscal pool by attracting private capital investments through social impact bonds and other innovative instruments. Successful pilot projects can then be scaled up effectively.

2. **Align Policy Goals and Prioritize Social Sector through a Child Rights Lens**

Currently, fiscal policy has been reactionary rather than proactive in addressing children’s constitutional rights. There is a lack of long-term, sustainable financing approaches to fuel resilience and productivity.

A positive recent development is the equity and empowerment mandate of URAAN Pakistan, which strives for inclusive and equitable education, health, and nutrition for children. Realizing this vision requires collaboration among all stakeholders to forge long-term development investments alongside immediate emergency responses.

3. **Enhance Utilization and Allocation of Social Sector Spending**

Effective utilization is crucial for sustainability and scalability. Due to the absence of Provincial Finance Commissions, much development expenditure is focused on infrastructure rather than social sector development. The NFC award also requires modification to incorporate explicit provisions for provincial social spending.

4. **Integrate Climate Adaptation Strategies with Social Sector Programs**

There is a strong connection between social sector financing and climate finance, which can be translated into child-focused climate finance alternatives. Pakistan can learn from Malawi’s Climate Health Resilience project, a notable case study in cross-sectoral climate finance.

Education and health projects can link with initiatives in water management, urban resilience, infrastructure, and flood recovery. Achieving this requires capacity building, willingness to reform, and the development of proposals with this integrated approach in mind.

—

### Innovative and Cost-Effective Financing Models

Many experts advocate for innovative alternative financing models to diversify fiscal resources for social sector investment. Some noteworthy examples include:

– **Blended Finance:** Combines public and philanthropic funds with private capital to mobilize investment for sustainable development, reducing risks for investors. The Global Partnership for Education Multiplier Fund is a successful example.

– **Development Impact Bonds and Social Impact Bonds:** Outcome-based financial instruments where private investment supports social programs, with repayments conditional on achieving results. These bonds enable collaboration among public sectors, private investors, and service providers. For example, the Punjab Skills Development Fund is implementing the first Employment Impact Bond, focusing on imparting future-ready skills to youth.

– **Social Success Notes:** Private investment by social enterprises with returns linked to achieved outcomes.

– **Social Impact Guarantees:** Governments or donors provide guarantees to incentivize private investment. Singapore’s Social Impact Guarantee Program has improved education and employment outcomes for youth.

– **Catastrophe Bonds:** Insurance-linked securities that can support climate adaptation initiatives under Pakistan’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to finance disaster response.

Public finance remains indispensable for the social sector. Alternative financing instruments should complement—not replace—public expenditure.

—

### Debt Swaps and Corporate Sector Engagement

Given high debt servicing costs that surpass social spending, bilateral debt swaps and Debt-for-Child Buybacks present strong opportunities. Pakistan could renegotiate bilateral debts to replace repayments with commitments for investment in social and sustainable development programs.

Egypt’s recent debt swap with Germany, where resources are committed toward welfare programs, serves as a successful example. Pakistan can similarly implement Debt-for-Child Buybacks to direct funds toward child health, education, and wellbeing.

The private sector should adopt a long-term, outcome-driven approach to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and philanthropy, aligning initiatives with national development goals. Instead of one-off projects, investments must focus on measurable social impact. The Indus Hospital Network exemplifies how sustained, strategic healthcare philanthropy can support vulnerable populations effectively.

—

### Revenue Generation and Program Sustainability

– The **Sehat Sahulat Programme** should evolve from a non-contributory to a contributory model to ensure long-term sustainability and improved healthcare quality.

– Levies on tobacco and soft drinks can generate dedicated revenue for child-focused health and nutrition programs while also discouraging consumption of harmful products.

—

### Conclusion

Recent floods and their devastating impact on children underscore that traditional approaches—often seen as mere charity or welfare—are insufficient. A fundamental shift is needed to reconceptualize social spending as a high-return investment in Pakistan’s future human capital.

The sustainability and scalability of social sector investments will ultimately depend on their alignment with local needs and contexts, as well as their integration with national and sustainable development goals.

By adopting innovative financing models, enhancing policy alignment, and leveraging both public and private resources, Pakistan can build resilient social sectors that secure a brighter future for its children.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345119-alternative-financing-for-human-capital

Indore: Patient’s Attender Stabbed In Road Rage Incident At Super Specialty Hospital

**Road Rage Incident at Indore Super Specialty Hospital Leaves Youth Injured**

Indore (Madhya Pradesh): A 28-year-old man visiting a patient at the Super Specialty Hospital was stabbed during a road rage incident on Saturday afternoon.

The incident occurred around 2 pm under the jurisdiction of Sanyogitaganj police station when the victim was leaving the hospital campus in his car. According to police reports, the accused approached from the wrong side on a two-wheeler, initiating an argument with the victim before attacking him.

ACP Sanyogitaganj Tushar Singh informed that the victim, identified as Gaurav Patidar, a resident of Rau, had come to visit a patient admitted to the hospital. While leaving, a man named Hardeep, riding his bike from the wrong side, confronted Gaurav and accused him of crossing too close.

The argument escalated quickly, with Hardeep pulling out a knife and stabbing Gaurav, causing serious injuries. In addition to the stabbing, Hardeep allegedly damaged Gaurav’s car during the altercation.

Gaurav was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he is currently undergoing treatment. The police have registered a case of attempted murder against the accused under relevant sections of the BNS. Further investigation into the incident is ongoing.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/indore/indore-patients-attender-stabbed-in-road-rage-incident-at-super-specialty-hospital

Anatoly Malykhin says loss to ‘Reug Reug’ was crucial for MMA career: “What I needed was exactly this”

Russian behemoth Anatoly Malykhin experienced a significant setback last year when he suffered the first loss of his MMA career.

The defeat came at the hands of Reug Reug Oumar Kane, marking a pivotal moment in Malykhin’s fighting journey.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/news-anatoly-malykhin-says-loss-reug-reug-crucial-mma-career-what-i-needed-exactly-this

How Apple Watch uses AI to detect high blood pressure

**How Apple Watch Uses AI to Detect High Blood Pressure**
*By Akash Pandey | Sep 19, 2025, 06:54 PM*

Apple has introduced a groundbreaking feature in its latest Apple Watch Series 11 models that can alert users to possible high blood pressure. This innovative capability, developed using artificial intelligence (AI), is also compatible with Apple Watch Series 9 and later models.

According to Sumbul Ahmad Desai, Apple’s Vice President of Health, the feature was created by applying AI models to existing sensor data collected by the watch.

### How Apple Developed the AI Algorithm

Apple leveraged AI to analyze data from 100,000 participants involved in a heart and movement study launched in 2019. The objective was to identify patterns in sensor signals—primarily from the watch’s heart-related sensors—that correlate with traditional blood pressure measurements.

Through multiple layers of machine learning, Apple developed an algorithm that was further validated in a dedicated study of 2,000 participants.

### Regulatory Approval and Availability

The feature has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It does not provide direct blood pressure readings but instead alerts users about potential high blood pressure. Users are then encouraged to confirm their condition with a traditional blood pressure cuff and consult a healthcare professional.

Apple plans to make this feature available in over 150 countries worldwide.

### Potential Health Impact

Experts believe this feature could have significant health benefits. Ami Bhatt, Chief Innovation Officer of the American College of Cardiology, stated that Apple’s AI-driven function may help users detect high blood pressure early, potentially preventing serious health issues such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease.

However, Bhatt emphasized that the feature should not replace conventional blood pressure measurements or professional medical advice. She also cautioned about the risk of false reassurance, warning that individuals who do not receive alerts might mistakenly assume they do not have hypertension.

—

With this new AI-powered tool, Apple continues to enhance health monitoring through wearable technology, potentially saving lives by encouraging earlier detection and intervention for high blood pressure.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/apple-watch-uses-ai-to-offer-blood-pressure-notification-feature/story

Mom Thought Husband Was Getting Son To Sleep, Then She Checked The Babycam

When a new mom put her husband in charge of their son’s bedtime, she assumed it would all go to plan. Bedtime can often be a struggle for both kids and parents. In 2024, the C. S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health found that around 1 in 4 parents (27 percent) experienced difficulties in getting their child to bed.

Dalinna, a stay-at-home mom based in Connecticut, has certainly endured some struggles with her 8-month-old son, Mateo. “Lately, he’s been very attached to me and hasn’t been sleeping very well,” she told *Newsweek*. Eager to break the cycle, one recent night Dalinna asked her husband to put Mateo to bed, hoping the change would bring about a better result.

“Sometimes Mateo sleeps with him, sometimes he doesn’t,” she explained.

On that particular night, it initially looked like her plan had worked. “It seemed quiet, and my husband didn’t bring Mateo out of the room,” Dalinna said. “I had been cooking for a while, and both of them were still in the room, so I checked the camera.”

That was when she discovered the truth: Mateo wasn’t asleep at all. Not only that, he was playing games with his dad, who appeared happy to indulge his son despite the late hour.

“When I saw what was happening, I laughed, it was so cute. I really thought he was trying to put him to sleep,” Dalinna recalled.

Dalinna ended up posting footage of what she saw that night on the baby monitor to her TikTok account, @momlife.dalinnaz. An onscreen caption read: “When daddy say
https://www.newsweek.com/mom-thought-husband-getting-son-sleep-checked-babycam-2132344

Low-fat dairy: Myth v/s facts

**Low-fat Dairy: Myth vs. Facts**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 19, 2025, 01:52 PM*

—

### What’s the Story?

Low-fat dairy products are often promoted as healthier alternatives to their full-fat counterparts, especially for individuals aiming to manage weight or cholesterol levels. However, the benefits of low-fat dairy aren’t as straightforward as many believe. This article explores various aspects of low-fat dairy, including its nutritional value, effects on health, and common misconceptions about its consumption.

—

### 1. Nutritional Value of Low-Fat Dairy

Low-fat dairy products typically contain fewer calories than full-fat versions, making them attractive to those monitoring calorie intake. However, processing to remove fat can lead to a reduction in essential nutrients, particularly fat-soluble vitamins like A and D.

Therefore, while low-fat dairy may help reduce calorie consumption, it might not always offer superior nutritional benefits compared to full-fat options.

—

### 2. Impact on Cholesterol Levels

There is a widespread belief that low-fat dairy helps lower cholesterol levels. Yet, research indicates the relationship between dairy fat and cholesterol is more complex. Some studies suggest that full-fat dairy does not significantly raise LDL (“bad”) cholesterol compared to low-fat alternatives.

This means consuming full-fat dairy in moderation could be just as heart-healthy as opting for low-fat products.

—

### 3. Satiety and Weight Management

A common misconception is that low-fat dairy aids weight management by increasing satiety. However, evidence from some studies shows that full-fat dairy might actually be more satiating due to its higher fat content.

Feeling fuller for longer can reduce overall calorie intake by curbing hunger more effectively than low-fat options.

—

### Tip 1: Cost Considerations in Dairy Choices

When deciding between low-fat and full-fat dairy, cost is an important factor. Low-fat products usually cost more because of the additional processing required to remove fat content.

Consumers should balance their budget with their health goals, remembering that maintaining a balanced diet is more important than saving a few cents.

—

**Conclusion**

The choice between low-fat and full-fat dairy is not clear-cut. While low-fat dairy reduces calorie intake, it may lack some nutrients and may not offer significant heart health benefits over full-fat dairy. Full-fat dairy might also better promote satiety, potentially aiding in weight management. Considering nutritional needs, personal health goals, and budget can help make the best choice for you.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/low-fat-dairy-myth-v-s-facts/story

Swap candy with spiced jowar puffs for healthier snacking

**Swap Candy with Spiced Jowar Puffs for Healthier Snacking**
*By Anujj Trehaan | Sep 19, 2025, 02:21 PM*

Craving a crunchy snack but want to keep it healthy? Swapping candy with spiced jowar puffs is an excellent way to enjoy flavorful munchies without the guilt. Jowar, also known as sorghum, is a gluten-free whole grain packed with fiber and essential nutrients. Spiced jowar puffs offer the satisfying crunch of traditional snacks while boosting your nutritional intake.

—

### Nutritional Benefits of Jowar

Jowar is rich in vital nutrients such as iron, magnesium, and phosphorus. It’s also high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer periods. Unlike candy, which is loaded with sugar and empty calories, jowar puffs provide a balanced nutritional profile. They can help regulate blood sugar levels and supply sustained energy throughout your day.

—

### Flavorful Spice Combinations

The secret to making jowar puffs irresistible lies in the spices. Turmeric, cumin, and chili powder are great choices to add vibrant flavor without the calories found in sugary coatings. These spices not only enhance taste but also bring anti-inflammatory benefits. Feel free to experiment with different spice blends to keep your snacking exciting and delicious.

—

### Cost-Effective Snacking Option

Making spiced jowar puffs at home can be far more affordable than purchasing ready-made snacks or candy. Jowar grains are inexpensive, and common household spices make this snack budget-friendly. Preparing your own puffs lets you save money while enjoying a healthier alternative to store-bought sweets.

—

### Easy Preparation Tips

Preparing spiced jowar puffs is simple and requires minimal ingredients. Start by popping jowar grains like popcorn until they become light and fluffy. Then, toss them in your choice of spices along with a little oil or butter to help the flavors stick. Finally, bake or air-fry the mixture for a few minutes to achieve the perfect crunch.

—

Switching from sugary candy to spiced jowar puffs is a smart move toward healthier snacking. Give this wholesome alternative a try and enjoy the benefits of whole grains combined with delicious spices!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/swap-candy-with-spiced-jowar-puffs-for-healthier-snacking/story

Is honey really healthy?

**Is Honey Really Healthy? Debunking Common Myths**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 18, 2025, 06:01 PM*

Honey has been cherished for centuries as a natural sweetener and a health booster. Yet, despite its long-standing reputation, several myths about honey have led to misconceptions regarding its benefits and uses. In this article, we debunk five of the biggest myths about honey and shed light on what this golden nectar is really like. This will help you make informed choices about including honey in your diet.

—

### Myth 1: Honey Is Always Healthier Than Sugar

Honey is often promoted as a healthier alternative to sugar because it is natural and contains some nutrients. However, both honey and sugar have similar calorie content. Honey does have trace amounts of vitamins and minerals, but these are not present in significant quantities.

The main difference lies in how they affect blood sugar levels. Honey has a slightly lower glycemic index than refined sugar, which means it may cause a slower rise in blood sugar. Still, moderation is key when consuming either.

—

### Myth 2: All Honey Is Created Equal

Not all honey is the same in terms of quality and nutritional value. Raw honey retains more nutrients compared to processed varieties that undergo pasteurization and filtration. Processing can reduce beneficial enzymes and antioxidants found in raw honey.

Additionally, some commercial honeys may be adulterated with syrups or additives, impacting their purity. When choosing honey, opt for raw or minimally processed options for maximum benefits.

—

### Myth 3: Honey Never Spoils

Many believe honey never goes bad because of its natural preservative properties. While properly stored honey can last indefinitely without spoiling, it can crystallize over time or change in color and flavor.

Crystallization is a natural process and does not mean the honey is spoiled. You can reverse this texture change by gently warming the jar, restoring honey’s smooth consistency.

—

### Myth 4: Consuming Local Honey Cures Allergies

The idea that eating local honey can cure allergies stems from the belief that consuming local pollen builds immunity. However, scientific evidence supporting this claim is minimal.

Most allergenic pollen comes from trees and grasses, not the flower pollen bees collect nectar from. Therefore, relying on local honey as an allergy remedy is not scientifically backed.

—

### Myth 5: Darker Honey Is More Nutritious Than Lighter Varieties

Darker honeys are often thought to be more nutritious due to their higher antioxidant content compared to lighter varieties like acacia or clover honey.

While it’s true that darker honeys tend to have a slightly richer antioxidant profile, the difference mainly depends on the floral source rather than a significant nutritional advantage.

—

### Final Thoughts

Honey can be a delightful addition to your diet when used wisely. Understanding the facts behind common myths ensures you enjoy honey’s benefits without falling for misconceptions. Remember, moderation and choosing high-quality honey are key to making the most of this natural sweetener.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/five-myths-about-honey-consumption-debunked/story

The tropical fruit which contains a secret cancer-fighting molecule

A tropical fruit contains a molecule that could help fight liver cancer, and scientists have discovered how to make it synthetically.

The leaves and bark of the guava fruit plant are known for their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and even anti-cancer properties. According to research led by William Chain, Associate Professor in the University of Delaware’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, a molecule found in the tropical fruit shows promise in combating liver-related cancers.

Published in the journal *Angewandte Chemie*, the study reveals a method to develop a synthetic form of this guava-derived molecule—one known to fight deadly liver cancers. Using a process called natural product total synthesis, the research team created a pathway using widely available chemicals to replicate the molecules found in the plant.

Liver cancer is a significant health issue. In the UK alone, there are around 6,600 new cases each year—that’s 18 every day. According to Cancer Research UK, this number could rise to approximately 9,700 cases annually by 2040. Unfortunately, survival rates remain low, with just 8% of people living for 10 years or more after diagnosis.

Symptoms of liver cancer include jaundice, itchy skin, loss of appetite, fatigue, flu-like symptoms, and a lump on the right side of the abdomen, the NHS reports.

Current treatments for liver cancer depend on the size and type of the tumor and include a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, thermal ablation (a technique using heat to destroy cancer cells), targeted medicines, and radiotherapy.

The synthetic guava molecule developed by Chain and his team could pave the way for more effective and affordable treatments. “The majority of clinically approved medicines are either made from a natural product or are based on one,” Professor Chain told Science Daily. “But there aren’t enough natural resources to make enough treatments. Now chemists will be able to take our manuscripts and basically follow our ‘recipe’ and they can make it themselves.”

The study authors emphasize that they are the first chemists to establish a synthetic method for creating this molecule. “We entered into that unknown territory, and I think we helped shed light on this unknown pathway that can get us there. And I think that’s the cool part,” said Liam O’Grady, doctoral student in Chain’s lab and the article’s first author.

Looking ahead, the research team is collaborating with the National Cancer Institute to explore the next steps in the process and determine whether the guava molecule may be effective against other types of cancers as well.

This breakthrough offers hope for developing new cancer therapies derived from nature, but available at scale to help save lives.
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/health/guava-fruit-benefits-cancer-risk-secret-molecule-b2828869.html