BREAKING – Flight lands in Budapest due to passenger’s fatal illness!
The Sunexpress airline’s Antalya-Düsseldorf service had to make an emergency landing in Budapest on Wednesday as a passenger was taken fatally ill, Budapest Airport told MTI.
A unit of the Airport Medical Service rushed to resuscitate the 75-year-old man but their efforts have failed, it said.
Budapest Airport has expressed condolences to the man’s relatives.
The flight will soon depart to its original destination, BA said.
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- All Wizz Air flights cancelled to busy airport, new airlines may come to Budapest
Why gastric bypass surgery is becoming popular in Türkiye
Sponsored content
In recent years, Türkiye has become a top destination for gastric bypass surgery, a life-changing procedure for individuals struggling with obesity.
The country has gained a reputation for offering world-class medical services, advanced surgical techniques, and highly affordable treatments, making it a sought-after destination for international patients.
This article explores the reasons behind the growing popularity of gastric bypass surgery in Turkey and what patients can expect when choosing this procedure at top hospitals like Reyap Hospital.
Expertise in Bariatric Surgery and Advanced Techniques
Turkey has established itself as a global leader in bariatric surgery, with a large number of surgeons specializing in procedures such as gastric bypass. Gastric bypass surgery is a highly effective method for weight loss, involving the creation of a small stomach pouch and rerouting part of the small intestine to reduce food intake and calorie absorption.
At clinics like Reyap Hospital, surgeons use state-of-the-art laparoscopic (minimally invasive) techniques, ensuring shorter recovery times and fewer complications. Turkish bariatric surgeons are internationally trained, and many have certifications from prestigious institutions in Europe and the United States. The combination of expertise and advanced technology has made Turkey a trusted choice for patients seeking gastric bypass surgery.
Key Highlights:
- Laparoscopic Techniques: Minimally invasive procedures ensure faster recovery and reduced post-operative discomfort.
- Highly Skilled Surgeons: Internationally trained bariatric surgeons with extensive experience.
- Comprehensive Pre- and Post-Operative Care: Including nutritional guidance, physical therapy, and long-term follow-up care.
Affordability and Cost-Effectiveness
One of the primary reasons patients choose Turkey for gastric bypass surgery is the affordability. The cost of this procedure in Turkey is significantly lower compared to Western countries, even though the quality of care remains equally high. Turkey’s medical tourism industry benefits from lower operational costs, government incentives, and competitive pricing, all of which contribute to cost-effective solutions for international patients.
| Procedure | Avg. Cost in U.S. | Avg. Cost in U.K. | Avg. Cost in Turkey |
| Gastric Bypass Surgery | $25,000 | $20,000 | $6,500 |
Despite the lower prices, hospitals like Reyap Hospital offer world-class facilities, adhere to international healthcare standards, and are accredited by institutions such as the Joint Commission International (JCI). This allows patients to receive high-quality care at a fraction of the cost compared to countries like the U.S. and U.K.
Comprehensive Medical Tourism Services
Turkey has developed a robust infrastructure to cater to international patients, making the entire process of undergoing gastric bypass surgery seamless and stress-free. Hospitals in Turkey, including Reyap Hospital, offer comprehensive services for medical tourists, which include:
- Airport Transfers: Convenient pick-up and drop-off services for patients traveling from abroad.
- Accommodation Packages: Partnerships with nearby hotels for comfortable post-operative stays.
- Multilingual Staff: Fluent in English, Arabic, and other languages to assist international patients with ease.
- Tourism Opportunities: The chance to explore Istanbul’s cultural and historical sites during the recovery period.
These services, combined with the expertise and affordability of Turkish healthcare, make the country an attractive option for patients looking to undergo gastric bypass surgery in a supportive and patient-focused environment.
FAQs
- What is gastric bypass surgery?
Gastric bypass surgery is a weight loss procedure that reduces the size of the stomach and reroutes part of the small intestine to limit calorie absorption, helping patients achieve significant weight loss. - Why is gastric bypass surgery more affordable in Turkey?
Turkey offers lower costs due to factors such as government support for medical tourism, lower operating expenses, and competitive pricing, while maintaining international standards of care. - Is gastric bypass surgery in Turkey safe?
Yes, gastric bypass surgery in Turkey is performed by highly trained and experienced bariatric surgeons in internationally accredited hospitals like Reyap Hospital, ensuring the highest levels of safety and care. - How long does recovery take after gastric bypass surgery in Turkey?
Most patients can expect to stay in the hospital for 2-3 days and remain in Turkey for an additional week for follow-up care. Full recovery may take several weeks to months, depending on individual health. - How much weight can I lose with gastric bypass surgery?
Patients typically lose 60-80% of their excess weight within 12-18 months after gastric bypass surgery, provided they follow a proper diet and exercise regimen. - Are Turkish bariatric surgeons internationally trained?
Yes, many bariatric surgeons in Turkey have received international training and certifications, ensuring they meet global standards in bariatric surgery. - What kind of aftercare is provided following gastric bypass surgery in Turkey?
Hospitals like Reyap provide comprehensive post-operative care, including nutritional counseling, psychological support, and long-term follow-up to ensure successful weight loss. - Can I travel back home immediately after gastric bypass surgery?
Patients are generally advised to stay in Turkey for at least 7-10 days after surgery for post-operative check-ups and recovery. Traveling too soon is not recommended. - What are the risks associated with gastric bypass surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks involved, such as infection, blood clots, and complications related to anesthesia. However, these risks are minimized with laparoscopic techniques and experienced surgeons. - Do hospitals in Turkey accept international health insurance for gastric bypass surgery?
Many hospitals in Turkey, including Reyap Hospital, accept international health insurance. However, it’s important to confirm with your insurance provider before undergoing surgery.
Disclaimer: the author(s) of the sponsored article(s) are solely responsible for any opinions expressed or offers made. These opinions do not necessarily reflect the official position of Daily News Hungary, and the editorial staff cannot be held responsible for their veracity.
Bad news: Budapest and Hungarian cities struggle with alarming air pollution levels
Hungarian cities and towns did not perform well in the latest air quality rankings published by the European Environment Agency (EEA), with Budapest standing out for its high levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution in the atmosphere.
Budapest and Hungarian towns polluted
According to the EEA’s recent report, Budapest ranks 242nd out of 372 European cities in terms of air pollution. Other Hungarian cities also scored poorly, with Pécs taking 246th place, Veszprém in 254th, Szeged in 274th, and Győr at 295th.
These rankings are based on the concentration of PM2.5 particles in the air, a metric that reflects long-term exposure risks to human health. A lower rank means cleaner air, and unfortunately, the higher positions of Hungarian cities highlight the significant pollution problem they face.
The focus on PM2.5 particles is due to their harmful nature, Világgazdaság reports. These tiny particles, which can be as small as 2.5 microns in diameter, are considered the most dangerous among common pollutants. They can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, leading to serious health issues like respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
In Hungary, poor air quality is linked to around 10,000 premature deaths annually, alongside approximately one million cases of illness each year.
The majority of these health impacts are preventable if actions are taken to curb pollution.
Urgent changes are needed in Europe
The report used data from the last two calendar years, as long-term exposure is typically the most dangerous. Constant exposure to polluted air over time increases the risk of chronic diseases and early death. In 2021, the World Health Organisation (WHO) revised its air quality guidelines, recommending that annual average PM2.5 concentrations should not exceed 5 micrograms per cubic meter.
This is significantly stricter than the European Union’s current target, which allows for up to 25 micrograms per cubic meter. The discrepancy highlights the need for urgent changes to European policies if the continent is to meet global health standards.
“There are countless preventable deaths and illnesses tied to air pollution, which could be avoided if policymakers took decisive action. It’s perplexing why there’s been so much delay in implementing well-known solutions, many of which could rapidly lower pollution levels,” said Judit Szegő, project manager at the Clean Air Action Group. She emphasised that household heating is one of the largest sources of pollution in Hungary.
The biggest sources of pollution in Hungary
Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach, including large-scale public awareness campaigns, financial support for heating alternatives for those in need, and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations.
Szegő also pointed out that tackling traffic-related pollution is another key area where significant progress could be made. “Introducing low-emission zones, creating more 30 km/h speed limit areas, and reforming parking regulations could all contribute to reducing harmful emissions and improving air quality in cities,” she noted.
Meanwhile, the European Union is in the process of reviewing its air quality policies. The goal of this revision is to bring EU regulations in line with the WHO’s updated guidelines, potentially leading to stricter rules for member states, including Hungary. If adopted, these changes could play a critical role in improving the air quality across Europe, protecting public health, and reducing the number of premature deaths linked to pollution.
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Mourning: Constitutional lawyer Dániel Karsai passes away at 47, after advocating for end-of-life decisions
Dániel Karsai, a Hungarian constitutional lawyer, passed away at the age of 47 after battling ALS for three years. His name became widely known in Hungary when he appealed to the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, seeking the right to euthanasia so he could end his life with dignity.
Dániel Karsai passes away at 47
The news of his passing was shared by his brother on social media late on Saturday evening.
“Dani passed away this evening. For over three years, he fought bravely and with dignity against an unbeatable foe, ALS.
You’ll always be with me, with us, Bro.
Love you!” – wrote Karsai’s brother, Péter.
Dániel Karsai was born in Budapest on 28 March 1977. He attended Berzsenyi Dániel High School and later graduated from the Faculty of Law at ELTE University in 2001, becoming a lawyer and constitutional expert, 24.hu writes.
In July 2021, he noticed something was wrong, and in August 2022, he was diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis),
a terminal illness that progressively weakens the body as motor neurons in the central nervous system deteriorate, all while the mind remains fully conscious.
Karsai’s battle with ASL and the court
Dániel Karsai did not wish to live in such a state, so he turned to the Strasbourg court to seek the right to euthanasia. However, in June 2024, the court rejected his plea, prompting him to appeal to the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights.
“I still go to the office a few times a week, not just to check if the walls are still standing, but to work. But this disease will eventually reach a stage where that won’t be possible anymore—the stage of complete paralysis. No movement, no ability to communicate—that’s when I don’t think I can call it a meaningful life anymore. For that stage, I want to retain my right to decide, or rather, I want to gain it. To decide at some point to stop if I feel it’s time. I can’t say now whether that will be in one year or twenty, but when I reach that stage, I’ll know. And if I feel that there’s still value in life, I won’t end it just to prove something to the outside world. I don’t want to please anyone—I want to live my life my way. But the Hungarian state currently doesn’t provide that right, and that needs to change,” Dániel Karsai explained in an interview with Népszava in October 2023.
Karsai’s last public statement
In his last public statement, Dániel Karsai declared that he did not wish to be a servant to Putin or to suffering.
His final public comment was in response to remarks made by Balázs Orbán, the prime minister’s political director, regarding the 1956 Hungarian Revolution and Ukraine. Orbán had said that Ukrainian President Zelensky had led his country into a war of defense, resulting in the loss of territory and lives, and implied that Hungary would not have taken the same course, considering it irresponsible.
In a post on Friday, Karsai responded by writing:
“I would like to remind Mr. Orbán that a cowardly people have no homeland. We may have lost our revolutions, but those were moments to be proud of—we stood up for noble ideals like freedom. And it’s better to die free than to live as a servant.”
The terminally ill constitutional lawyer drew a parallel between this struggle and his own fight for the right to make end-of-life decisions and the legalisation of euthanasia:
“I don’t want to be a servant to Putin or to suffering. If pain consumes everything, I want to leave with dignity, head held high, staring fate in the face.”
Rest in peace, Dániel Karsai.
National public health strategy announced in Hungary
National public health strategy in Hungary
The document also defines “intervention points and monitoring”, Péter Takács said, noting that the strategy heavily leans towards prevention and catching diseases early.
Takács said the government’s goal is to increase the number of years Hungarians spend in health.
“Hungary seriously lags behind in this respect if compared with the EU average,” he said, adding that “it impacts the country’s economic performance.”
The state secretary cited studies that suggested that each year spent on health increased a country’s GDP by 0.4 percent.
He said the interior ministry, overseeing the health portfolio, assigned the task of drafting the strategy to the umbrella organisation Hungarian Association of Public Health Training and Research Institutes (NKE).
“Already, results show that our cooperation has extended colon cancer screenings to cover the entire population in the 50-70 age group across the country,” Takács added.
Róza Adany, NKE’s founder and honorary president, said that the population’s aging was a phenomenon prevalent in Hungarian society as well. She noted that “since 1981 the number of deaths outperforms the number of births,” adding that “2018 was a unique year from the point of view that never before had the proportion of people aged 65 or older exceeded the proportion of those aged five or younger”.
She promoted the approach that it was of key importance “to let older but active people appear in the labour market who can contribute to the country’s development”.
As we wrote earlier, changes coming to Budapest’s primary care on-call system: Key details you need to know
read also: Hungarian healthcare system is dying, with waiting lists for some surgeries lasting almost 7 years
New cooperation between Hungary and Russia, Minister Murashko in Budapest
Hungary and Russia may launch joint research and development projects in oncology, the National Institute of Oncology (OOI) said on Monday, after a Russian delegation headed by Health Minister Mikhail Murashko visited Budapest.
OOI said in a statement that the talks between the delegation and the Hungarian side, which included Peter Takacs, the state secretary for health care, and OOI Director General Csaba Polgar, focused on exploring new areas of cooperation in research, development, and technological innovation.
At the meeting, the Russian health minister briefed the hosts about his country’s experiences in the use of AI in diagnosing cancer and about the development of a new software.
Takacs noted the possibility of expanding cooperation concerning Hungary’s similar research projects. He called launching joint projects in innovative medicine research and medical therapy development “an important possible component”.
Murashko said that Russian proton therapy-centres were ready to receive, if need be, Hungarian patients, primarily children.
read also:
- Putin’s blacklist snubs Hungary, includes Poland among nations of ‘destructive ideology’, read details HERE
- Thousands of Russians arrive in Hungary to work on the Paks II project
Discover the 5 best running tracks in Budapest!
Budapest, with its stunning scenery and mix of urban and natural landscapes, is a runner’s paradise. Whether you prefer a peaceful jog along the river or a challenging trail through the hills, the city offers an array of excellent options. Here, we have collected 5 of the best running tracks in Budapest to suit everyone’s needs and preferences. It does not matter where you are on your fitness journey—whether you are a pro, just starting out, or getting back into an active lifestyle.
City Park
Városliget, also known as City Park, is a great spot for runners. Situated near Heroes’ Square, this park offers a variety of running paths, with loops ranging from 3 to 6 km. Runners can enjoy a mix of paved and dirt paths that meander through trees, around lakes, and past notable landmarks like Vajdahunyad Castle and the Széchenyi Thermal Bath. Its central location makes Városliget one of the most accessible running tracks in Budapest, ideal for city dwellers looking for a quick escape into nature.
Bikás Park
For those living in District XI, Bikás Park offers a convenient and pleasant running environment. The park has a short 1-2 km loop, making it ideal for a quick workout. With its flat, paved paths, it’s great for runners of all levels, and its proximity to public transport makes it highly accessible. Bikás Park also features fitness equipment, perfect for spicing up your running routine with some strength training. Though smaller, it’s one of the most functional running tracks in Budapest for local residents.
Margaret Island
One of the most popular running tracks in Budapest is the loop around Margaret Island. Located in the heart of the Danube River between Buda and Pest, this 5.35 km cushioned track is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. The synthetic surface is easy on the joints, and the views are spectacular. As you run, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery, historic landmarks, and the calming flow of the river. Whether you’re training for a race or simply want a scenic jog, Margaret Island offers the perfect environment. If you do not like running alone, there are plenty of running groups you can join online.
Normafa
For trail runners seeking fresh air and stunning views, Normafa in the Buda Hills is the place to be. This area offers a variety of trails, ranging from short loops to longer runs of up to 10 km, all surrounded by forest. The dirt paths provide an excellent surface for those looking to challenge themselves with hills, while the panoramic views of Budapest at certain points make the effort well worth it. Normafa’s peaceful atmosphere makes it one of the most tranquil running tracks in Budapest. However, as it is not close to the city centre, you may have to travel some distance to get there.
Óbuda Island / Hajógyári Island
For those looking to escape the crowds, Óbuda Island provides a more secluded running experience. This lesser-known island, located to the north of Margaret Island, offers several dirt and gravel paths, with loop options ranging from 3 to 6 km. The island’s natural beauty and tranquillity make it a great place to unwind while getting in your daily run. The calm surroundings and riverside views make Óbuda Island one of the hidden gems among the running tracks in Budapest.
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EC President von der Leyen nominates Hungarian Commissioner to a weak position – UPDATED
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has nominated Hungary’s Olivér Várhelyi for the post of European Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare.
Unveiling her new leadership team at a press conference held on the sidelines of an EP plenary session on Tuesday, von der Leyen said Várhelyi would be responsible for building a common European health-care union and would be tasked with leading the work on beating cancer and disease prevention.
Várhelyi served as Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement in the previous commission.
Várhelyi said on social media that he was “honoured to be nominated”, adding that the nomination recognised “the excellence of Hungarian medical professionals from Semmeilweis to Szent-Gyorgyi or Katalin Kariko and many others”.
“The task of representing that excellence with integrity is enormous,” he said.
Varhelyi served as Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement in the previous commission.
Orbán cabinet ploughs euro billions into healthcare sector since 2010
The government has spent around HUF 30,000bn on healthcare since coming to power in 2010, Finance Minister Mihály Varga said on Tuesday, at the inauguration of a trauma centre at a big hospital in Budapest.
Varga said the government had allocated resources for infrastructure developments, pay rises for doctors and nurses, and investments in healthcare industry manufacturing, putting the sector “back on its feet”. He added that HUF 3,200bn had been earmarked for healthcare in this year’s budget, HUF 2,000bn more than in the 2010 budget.
In spite of a government decision to postpone HUF 675bn of projects, the government will plough about HUF 2,000bn into investments this year, Varga said.
He noted that GDP growth reached 1.5pc in the first half and said the government counted on the economy expanding 3-3.5pc for the full year. The government is working to boost growth over that, and healthcare investments can help, he added.
Péter Takaás, the state secretary for healthcare, noted that HUF 133bn in government funding had been channeled to the Healthy Budapest Programme. That funding was complemented with close to HUF 100bn for hospital renovations during the pandemic, he added.
Zsolt Ralovich, the director of Saint John’s Hospital, where the investment was made, said the trauma department there had taken in over 60,000 patients last year.
Europe needs competitiveness ‘turnaround’
Culture and Innovation Minister Balázs Hankó said Europe needed a “competitiveness turnaround” in remarks ahead of an informal meeting of European Union higher education and research ministers in Budapest on Tuesday.
Hankó noted that Europe’s productivity rate had stood at 95pc of the United States’ in 1995, but had since fallen to 80pc. He added that the EU’s scientific output had fallen by 8pc in the past decades and was now lagging behind that of China and the US.
Of the world’s 50 biggest technology companies, just four are in the EU, he said, adding that the share of global venture capital in the EU stood at 5pc, compared to the 50pc in the US.
In order to advance the competitiveness turnaround, fragmentation of research networks must be reduced, he said. Regional disparities with regard to R+D funding should be eliminated, he added, pointing out that just 8pc of R+D funding went to Central Europe, while the region was home to 24pc of the EU population.
Hankó held up Hungary’s higher education model as an example for the EU and said the adoption of that model had resulted in doubled numbers of PhD students and researchers and triple the volume of innovation resources.
Nobel Prize-winning Hungarian physicist Ferenc Krausz’s thoughts
Ferenc Krausz, the Nobel Prize-winning Hungarian physicist, gave a presentation to the participants in which he pointed out that early detection of disease could not only extend lives, but strengthen competitiveness by ensuring a bigger pool of economically active people. He added that cheaper, more cost-effective healthcare was necessary to save more lives and advance competitiveness.
He said that research and innovation were fundamental forces behind the EU’s economy and competitiveness, and pointed to the work of the Center for Molecular Fingerprinting (CMF), established in Budapest in 2019, to shape the future of healthcare.
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- Hungarian astronomer discovers previously unknown near-Earth asteroids
- How medieval Hungarian villages looked before the Ottoman occupation: A digital reconstruction
Schwarzenegger visits Budapest: A gym session with PM Orbán and a surprise appearance at a local spot
Arnold Schwarzenegger, the famous actor and former governor of California, made an appearance at Déryné, a restaurant popular among international celebrities in Budapest. His visit sparked curiosity as he wasn’t in Hungary for a film shoot like Morgan Freeman had been a few weeks earlier. The answer likely lies in Prague, where Schwarzenegger has been filming the second season of the Netflix series Fubar. Given the proximity to Budapest, it seems the actor decided to make a quick stop in the Hungarian capital, which he has visited several times before, including for the funeral of his friend Andy Vajna in 2019.
Schwarzenegger in Budapest
Schwarzenegger’s time in Budapest wasn’t just about food, though. He met with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán at the Carmelite Monastery, the government’s headquarters, Telex reports. In a playful twist, the prime minister posted photos on his social media of Schwarzenegger sitting in his chair, captioned with, “This is just the beginning! 💪.”
Not long after, another post followed showing Schwarzenegger giving Orbán workout tips as the Hungarian leader jokingly pretended to lift weights in a formal shirt.
Despite leaving his workout gear at home, Orbán seemed to enjoy the impromptu fitness session. It’s well known that the prime minister has returned to regular training, reportedly using kettlebells ranging from 16 to 24 kilograms. The pair later visited Flex Gym in Budapest, where Schwarzenegger posed with a life-sized Terminator statue, solidifying the humorous and lighthearted tone of the day.
In a video shared later, Orbán was seen driving Schwarzenegger around Budapest, with the two chatting in the car. Orbán commented on how tourists who spotted Schwarzenegger likely had no idea who Orbán was, while the former governor playfully praised the prime minister for being an excellent driver.
Orbán posted a photo gallery on his Facebook page:
Schwarzenegger in Déryné:
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Changes coming to Budapest’s primary care on-call system: Key details you need to know
According to the Ministry of Interior’s State Secretary for Health, the new primary care on-call system set to launch in Budapest on 1 October will offer improved patient services.
Significant changes to Budapest’s on-call system
According to Portfolio, at a press conference in Budapest on Friday, Péter Takács explained that the new system, managed by the National Ambulance Service (OMSZ), will feature 28 adult and three pediatric care centres across 15 locations, with the support of 14 mobile units. The new structure will coordinate primary care, emergency medical services, and hospital emergency departments, ensuring better collaboration.
Takács emphasised that for life-threatening emergencies, residents should still call the 112 emergency number. However, for non-urgent issues after 4 PM, on weekends, and public holidays, people should use the already familiar 1830 hotline.
This system mirrors the one already implemented in rural areas: calls will be answered by healthcare professionals who will assess the patient’s condition and either refer them to a primary care on-call centre or dispatch a mobile unit. In cases of urgent need, an ambulance will be sent.
Takács noted that Budapest presents a unique challenge in terms of healthcare organisation, so the new system is being introduced with some flexibility. Consultations were held with general practitioners, the medical chamber, and other professional organisations to ensure the best possible adaptation for the capital.
Separate on-call services for adults and children
He also outlined that the new system will have separate on-call services for adults and children, with three pediatric centres in the city, supported by a mobile unit. Additionally, there will be two daytime care points. Takács expressed hope that this new, more flexible system would overcome the challenges and inefficiencies of the current one.
The state secretary reassured that there is no government intention to change the working hours of general practitioners, which typically run from 8 AM to 12 PM, and from 4 PM to 8 PM, in Budapest.
OMSZ Director General Gábor Csató added that under the new system, patients won’t need to search for the right care themselves.
Instead, they will call the 1830 number, and a specialist will determine the necessary level of care.
National data shows that 93% of patients seeking on-call care only have minor or easily treatable complaints.
Csató also mentioned that 261 general practitioners have signed up to work within the OMSZ on-call system, and hospital doctors will also be available. Recruitment is ongoing, but all necessary resources and personnel are in place for the 1 October launch.
He further clarified that patients will not be treated based on their address, and there will be specialist consultations available for on-call doctors. OMSZ spokesperson Pál Győrfi added that every possible communication channel will be used to inform the public.
The OMSZ website will provide continuously updated information, the LifeSaver app will send push notifications, and on-call centres will be highlighted in route planning apps. Information will also be shared through local newspapers and TV channels.
Read also:
- Hungarian healthcare system is dying, with waiting lists for some surgeries lasting almost 7 years
- Hungarian university warns against using online diabetes products for slimming
Featured image: depositphotos.com
PM Orbán starts his weight-loss journey using a Russian tool to train
Viktor Orbán’s looking a lot slimmer these days, and people are starting to notice. The Hungarian Prime Minister recently spilled the tea on his fitness routine, showing he’s serious about getting in shape—he even packs his weights when travelling abroad. That’s true dedication!
Orbán’s new lifestyle
Szeretlek Magyarország writes that at a recent picnic in Kötcse, guests couldn’t help but notice the Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s weight loss, which sparked widespread curiosity. Orbán later confirmed to Blikk that he’s back on the grind after an 18-month break from a kettlebell injury. Despite this setback, Orbán now trains without a personal trainer, exercising 4-5 times a week using 16 and 24 kg kettlebells. He even takes his weights with him on international trips, demonstrating his commitment to staying fit whenever his schedule allows.
Strict diet to keep in shape
In addition to exercising, Orbán has also adopted a low-calorie diet, though he admits curbing his appetite is a challenge, joking that he could “eat an iron nail.” While he hasn’t revealed how much weight he has shed, he avoids stepping on the scale. The Prime Minister’s workouts revolve around kettlebell exercises, a tool with roots in Russia, originally used by the Soviet army to keep soldiers fit. The kettlebell, an iron ball with a large handle, plays a key role in his fitness routine.
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Hungarian university warns against using online diabetes products for slimming
Antidiabetic drugs purchased online and taken with the aim of losing weight could pose serious health risks, researchers at Pécs University (PTE) said on Friday.
Experts warn against using diabetes product for weight loss
In its statement, the university said there was an increased demand for Ozempic injections in Hungary, while the drug “often cannot reach diabetic patients who would need it the most.”
Obtaining the drug from the black market poses “huge health risks”, they added. In their research, the experts made trial purchases on popular websites and found that nearly every other semiglutide product on offer was available from illegal pharmacies and could impact the users’ health through contamination or an overdose.
Quoting from a study published in the US periodical JAMA Network Open, the purity of online products was far below expected levels, while they could contain up to 40 percent more active ingredient than recommended, posing risks of an overdose.
Watch a video of the effects of the diabetes medication on weight below:
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- How to keep bed bugs at bay this summer: Insights from a public health expert
Featured image: depositphotos.com
Fire breaks out at Hungary’s iconic cave bath: Roof of medical center destroyed in blaze
A fire broke out at Hungary’s most famous cave bath, the Miskolctapolca Cave Bath, affecting the roof of one of its buildings—the medical centre—according to a statement from the National Directorate for Disaster Management on Friday evening.
The department’s website reported that the entire roof structure of the 800-square-meter leisure centre was engulfed in flames.
Roof of Mikolctapolca Cave Bath building in flames
By late night, the fire was finally contained, and Zsuzsanna Rinyu, deputy spokesperson for the Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County Disaster Management Directorate, informed news agencies that efforts to remove smouldering debris were still ongoing, Telex reports.
The firefighting operation involved local professional firefighters using five vehicles, supported by additional units from Kazincbarcika and Tiszaújváros. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Videos shared on Facebook by local residents show the dramatic flames lighting up the night, visible from the park next to the bathhouse:
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Hungarians most dissatisfied with their appearance, health report reveals
According to the STADA Health Report 2024, Hungarians rank among the most dissatisfied with their appearance and physical health across Europe. The representative study, conducted in 23 countries, found that only 32% of Hungarians are satisfied with their appearance, a figure significantly below the European average. In comparison, 71% of Uzbeks, 68% of Austrians, and 66% of Swiss respondents report feeling content with their looks.
Many Hungarians feel overweight
The report reveals that 56% of Hungarians consider themselves overweight, with weight being the primary factor contributing to low self-confidence, Economx writes based on the report. The dissatisfaction is more prominent among women, who are more likely than men to view themselves as overweight, even though women are statistically more likely to have a healthy body mass index (BMI).
Despite these concerns, many Hungarians prefer to spend money on vitamins and supplements rather than on gym memberships or fitness equipment, indicating a reliance on nutritional support over physical activity for maintaining their health and appearance.
Not too many Hungarians rate their physical health as good
When it comes to overall physical health, only 39% of Hungarians rate their condition as good, significantly trailing behind the European average of 54%. This places Hungary near the bottom of the list, with higher figures reported in countries like Romania (67%) and Switzerland (66%). On the other hand, 40% of Hungarians rate their physical health as average, while 22% describe it as poor.
Interestingly, the report highlights that although only 1% of Hungarians have invested in plastic surgery, a significant number are open to the idea of cosmetic procedures. For instance, 41% would consider laser hair removal, and 23% are open to weight loss surgeries or more extensive cosmetic surgeries.
Aesthetic dental procedures remain the most popular cosmetic intervention in Hungary, with 10% of the population having undergone such treatments. Notably, 70% would be willing to opt for aesthetic dental work if it were free, suggesting that cost is a significant barrier.
Hungarian consume lots of vitamins and supplements
Despite the rising openness to cosmetic procedures, it seems that many Hungarians still prioritise basic health products over aesthetic enhancements. Vitamins and supplements are among the most common purchases, with a larger percentage of Hungarians investing in these than the European average. Cosmetic products follow closely behind, while spending on gym memberships and sports equipment remains lower in Hungary compared to other European countries.
Overall, the report paints a complex picture of health and body image in Hungary. While many individuals struggle with dissatisfaction about their physical appearance and health, financial constraints and priorities influence their choices. While there is an interest in improving physical appearance, particularly through cosmetic procedures, the costs associated with such treatments often prevent people from pursuing them. Instead, a preference for nutritional supplements and general health products suggests that many are looking for alternative ways to support their health and appearance.
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Hungarian Olympic champion was rushed to the ER
Hungarian Olympic champion Henrietta Ónodi, celebrated for her gold medal in the 1992 Barcelona Games, is battling serious health issues following a heart attack in March. After two months in rehabilitation, the former gymnast remains in critical condition, with her family rallying support to cover the overwhelming medical expenses.
Her family seeks help
VG reports that Henrietta Ónodi, a Hungarian Olympic champion and 38-time national titleholder, has faced severe health challenges after suffering a heart attack in March. Following her emergency surgery to address a near-complete blockage in her arteries, she spent the last two months in a long-term care rehabilitation hospital before a recent transfer to the emergency room. Her sister, Barbara Ónodi-Klausler, has been actively updating supporters and expressed gratitude for the nearly USD 36,000 raised through a GoFundMe campaign. The funds, donated by over 600 people, aim to help cover the exorbitant medical expenses, with a goal of reaching half a million dollars.
Hungarian Olympic champion suffers heart attack
Ónodi, who won gold in the vault at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, has been residing in the United States with her family since ending her competitive gymnastics career in 1997. The former gymnast’s health crisis began on 28 March, when she collapsed in a Florida grocery store and was rushed to the hospital. Despite her heart stopping several times during the journey, doctors were able to stabilise her condition through life-saving surgery. The Hungarian Olympic champion’s family continues to seek support to manage the high costs of her ongoing treatment. Her sister, Barbara, writes:
They started treatment at the hospital, which has made her feel somewhat better, but her pain is still significant. However, her appetite has improved and she is taking her medication properly.
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Hungary’s Semmelweis University among world’s best
Hungary’s medical Semmelweis University has joined the ranks of the world’s top higher education institutions in 14 fields on the list of Best Global Universities compiled by US News, Béla Merkely, the university’s rector, said on Tuesday.
Semmelweis University’s ranking
Semmelweis University has jumped 12 places since last year to 31st in the field of cardiac and cardiovascular systems, Merkely told public television M1, underscoring the ranking’s importance at the international level, as cardiovascular diseases are the most common cause of death worldwide.
The university ranks ahead of several hundred American and European institutions in this field, including Stockholm’s Karolinska Institutet, Sorbonne University, King’s College London, Boston University and the University of Washington, Merkely said.
He also mentioned systematic developments undertaken at the university over the last 15 years, including infrastructure and human resources upgrades at the Városmajor Cardiovascular Clinic.
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Warning: Intense heatwave to hit Hungary, followed by sudden temperature drop
A new heatwave is expected to sweep across most of Hungary until next Friday, with temperatures reaching up to 37°C in the southern counties, according to HungaroMet Plc.’s latest forecast. Following this, a significant cold front is predicted to arrive next weekend, bringing widespread showers and thunderstorms and causing a notable drop in temperatures.
The forecast indicates that the Carpathian Basin will largely avoid major cyclones and their fronts, allowing temperatures to soar, with little to no rainfall expected. However, isolated showers and thunderstorms may occur in the western regions on Tuesday and Wednesday, Pénzcentrum writes, based on HungaroMet’s weather forecast.
The extreme heat will persist throughout the week, particularly in southern Hungary, where nighttime temperatures will also remain unseasonably warm. The northern and western regions will experience slightly lower, but still high, temperatures.
Heatwave followed by a cold front
By next Saturday, the arrival of a strong cold front from the northwest will lead to widespread precipitation and a sharp decline in temperatures.
HungaroMet Plc. has issued an orange-level heat warning for Baranya, Tolna, Bács-Kiskun, and Csongrád-Csanád counties for this Sunday, as average daily temperatures in these areas are expected to exceed 27°C. Several other counties are also likely to see daily averages above 25°C as the weekend concludes.
Early next week, the extreme heat is expected to continue in several southern counties, with daily averages remaining above 27°C on Monday and Tuesday.
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Featured image: illustration, depositphotos.com
Home alert programme saves over 22,000 lives in Hungary
A home alert programme for the elderly has saved more than 22,000 lives since its launch, Zsolt Nyitrai, an advisor to the prime minister, said on social media on Saturday.
Home alert programme saves lives
Help has been sent to the homes of Hungarians with the wristband alert devices (Gondosóra) on 360,000 occasions, Nyritrai said. The oldest user of the state-supported system is a 107-year-old woman, he added.
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