A persistent fever without an identifiable cause may indicate the presence of kidney cancer, according to medical experts. This condition, known as Pyrexia of Unknown Origin (PUO), can signal underlying health issues, including renal cell carcinoma, which often remains undetected until advanced stages.

Dr. Mohammed Mithi, a Surgical Oncologist at Saifee Hospital, emphasized that while fevers are typically associated with infections, unexplained recurring fevers could be linked to kidney cancer. He noted that this type of cancer is often discovered incidentally during imaging tests. “In certain cases, it arises with what is termed a paraneoplastic syndrome, which includes symptoms not directly caused by the tumor but by chemicals released by the tumor or by the immune system,” he explained.

Kidney cancer is frequently asymptomatic in its early stages. According to Dr. Iti Parikh, a Consultant Medical Oncologist at Bhailal Amin General Hospital, the classic symptoms—flank pain, hematuria (blood in urine), and abdominal masses—only appear in approximately 9 to 10 percent of cases. “When symptoms do manifest, they typically indicate an advanced local stage of the disease,” Dr. Parikh added.

Fever occurs in about 20 percent of kidney cancer patients, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as weight loss, night sweats, and fatigue. The exact cause of fever in these patients is frequently unknown. Dr. Parikh noted, “When fever appears, it can indicate more extensive or systemic disease.”

Dr. Mithi explained that persistent fever in kidney cancer cases is often due to the release of inflammatory cytokines like interleukin-6, which disrupts the body’s temperature regulation. This can lead to misdiagnosis, with patients receiving repeated antibiotic treatments instead of a cancer diagnosis, delaying timely intervention.

Other symptoms associated with kidney cancer include fatigue, weight loss, anemia, hypercalcemia, and in rare cases, liver dysfunction or Stauffer syndrome. “If fever is persistent without any evident source—especially if accompanied by systemic manifestations—clinicians must consider cancer in their differential diagnosis,” Dr. Mithi stated.

To diagnose kidney cancer, imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans are often employed. Kidney cancer, characterized by abnormal cell growth in the kidney tissue, can metastasize to other organs if not detected early.

This type of cancer predominantly affects individuals aged between 65 and 74 years, with men being twice as likely to develop it compared to women. While kidney cancer is rare in children, its early stages often do not produce noticeable symptoms, leading to late diagnoses as the tumor grows.

Some common symptoms of kidney cancer include:

– Blood in urine
– A lump or mass in the kidney area
– Flank pain
– Chronic fatigue
– General malaise
– Loss of appetite
– Persistent low-grade fever
– Bone pain
– High blood pressure
– Anemia
– Elevated calcium levels

Recognizing these signs can be critical for early detection and treatment. Patients experiencing unexplained fevers or other concerning symptoms should consult with healthcare professionals to rule out serious conditions like kidney cancer.

A disturbing incident in Balochistan, Pakistan, has drawn international attention after a couple was shot dead in broad daylight, allegedly for engaging in an ‘illicit affair.’ The killing, reported to have been ordered by a local tribal elder, highlights the ongoing issue of honour killings in the region. Following the incident, police arrested at least 11 individuals, including those believed to have been involved in the murder.

According to footage circulated on social media, a woman wrapped in a shawl is seen walking in front of a vehicle. In the video, she speaks in the local Brahvi language, stating, “You are only allowed to fire at me, nothing else.” The man accompanying her, armed with a pistol, opens fire, hitting her multiple times. The gruesome nature of the event has sparked outrage and condemnation from various quarters.

Understanding Honour Killings

Honour killings occur when a family member, often under the guidance of a tribal leader or local authority, believes that a woman has brought shame to the family or community. Such actions can be justified by social norms that dictate strict adherence to traditional gender roles. The motivations behind these killings can include disapproved relationships, seeking divorce, or simply a refusal to conform to societal expectations.

The recent case is not an isolated one. In 2016, social media influencer Qandeel Baloch was murdered by her brother, highlighting the severe consequences faced by women who challenge conservative norms in Pakistan. Bugti, the Chief Minister of Balochistan, described the latest incident as “intolerable” and a “blatant violation of social values and human dignity.”

Statistics and Wider Context

According to the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), at least 335 women and 119 men were killed in honour killings across the country in the previous year. This staggering statistic underscores the pervasive nature of the issue. While Pakistan faces significant challenges with honour-related violence, it is not alone. Reports from the UN Special Rapporteur indicate that honour killings have been documented in various countries, including Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, and Turkey. Furthermore, migrant communities in Western nations, such as France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, have also seen instances of these tragic events.

The issue of honour killings remains a pressing global concern, affecting numerous cultures and communities. As awareness increases, there is a growing demand for legislative and social changes to protect individuals from such violence. The recent tragedy in Balochistan serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for reform and advocacy against honour-based violence in all its forms.

A tsunami alert has been issued for Russia’s Far East following a series of powerful earthquakes today. The seismic activity began with a magnitude 5.0 tremor, succeeded by a stronger 6.7 magnitude quake, and culminated in an intense 7.4 magnitude earthquake. Authorities are warning coastal residents to prepare for potential tsunami waves, which can be devastating and deadly.

The first earthquake struck earlier on March 10, 2024, prompting emergency response teams to mobilize. A tsunami, which is generated by seismic activity or underwater volcanic eruptions, poses a significant risk to life and property in coastal areas. Authorities stress the importance of heeding official warnings and taking immediate action to ensure safety.

Safety Measures for Residents

In light of the tsunami alert, officials advise residents to move to higher ground as a priority. If you experience a strong earthquake lasting twenty seconds or more, or observe unusual changes in sea levels, evacuate immediately even if no official warning has been issued. Ideally, evacuate to an area at least 30 meters above sea level.

Preparation is key. Residents are urged to maintain an emergency kit at home, ensuring that it is stored in a waterproof bag for easy transport. This kit should contain essential supplies, including food, water, and first-aid items. It is also vital to consider pets; they should have identification tags or microchips for easy recovery if separated.

Communication during emergencies is crucial. Residents should keep in touch with family members and inform friends of their location. Be prepared for potential disruptions to basic services such as electricity, water, and gas, and remain calm if you need to contact emergency services, as response times may vary due to the situation.

Staying Informed and Safe

Access to reliable information is vital during a tsunami alert. A battery-powered radio can be an invaluable resource in the event of an internet outage, allowing residents to receive updates from authorities. Staying informed is essential for making timely decisions that can safeguard lives.

Avoid approaching the coast to view the tsunami or take photos, as this can be life-threatening. After evacuating, do not return to your home until authorities have declared the area safe. Some tsunami waves can be more powerful than the initial ones, making caution paramount.

In summary, staying calm and following official guidance are critical during this time. The National Institutes of Health emphasizes that preparedness is vital in mitigating the effects of such disasters. Following these safety measures can help protect lives and property as the situation develops.

The water levels of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers in Prayagraj have surged sharply, affecting more than 150,000 families as floodwaters inundate both rural and urban areas. By Sunday morning, floodwaters reached 16 villages and seven city neighbourhoods, prompting local authorities to remain on high alert while they continue their flood management efforts.

As of Sunday at 08:00, the Yamuna River at Naini rose significantly, increasing by 56 cm to reach 83.19 meters, just 1.5 meters below the danger mark of 84.734 meters. The Ganga at Phaphamau measured 83.06 meters, having risen by 45 cm. Other locations, including Chhatnag and Buxi STP, recorded levels of 82.41 meters and 82.90 meters, respectively.

By 16:00 on Sunday, there was a slight decline in water levels, with the Yamuna at Naini dipping to 82.86 meters. The Ganga’s levels showed mixed changes; Phaphamau increased marginally to 83.09 meters, while Chhatnag and Buxi STP experienced decreases of 4 cm and 9 cm, respectively. Despite these slight improvements, local officials remain vigilant as the threat of flooding persists, particularly in low-lying areas such as Baghdara, Salori, Beli, Rajapur, and Ashok Nagar.

Residents in these regions are taking precautions. Abhishek Yadav, a resident of Baghdara, expressed his concerns, stating he has gathered essential items in anticipation of his home being submerged. Local officials are conducting assessments in the hardest-hit areas. Sub-Divisional Magistrate Abhishek Kumar Singh visited Daraganj, Salori, and Rajapur on Saturday, advising residents to evacuate early.

Relief operations have commenced, with two camps established in Sadar Tehsil—Annie Besant Relief Camp and Cantt Marriage Hall—offering shelter to 50 individuals as of Saturday evening. These numbers are expected to grow as more areas become submerged. The District Magistrate, Ravindra Kumar Mandar, reassured the public that relief efforts are ongoing, with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and civil defence actively rescuing residents using boats.

In the Badra Sonoti region, 11 boats are currently operational, ferrying residents as road access becomes increasingly compromised. Although water levels have stabilized, experts caution that the situation remains precarious. Additional rainfall upstream could potentially lead to renewed flooding.

The irrigation department is actively managing water levels, reporting controlled releases of 46,000 cusecs from Bhuraghat Barrage and 80,000 cusecs from Ken Barrage, which are anticipated to reach Prayagraj by Sunday night. Executive Engineer Digvijay Narayan Shukla noted that while the release rates have declined, both rivers are still under substantial pressure.

As conditions remain uncertain, officials are on high alert, closely monitoring the situation and urging the public to prepare for possible evacuations should circumstances worsen. The community’s resilience is being tested, and local leaders continue to emphasize the importance of safety and preparedness in the face of natural disasters.