Data collected from more than 2000 computer professionals afflicted with CRI, who had sought help from Sanjeevani in Bangalore and Trivandrum, on analysis proves that maximum number of people have developed some or other kind of diseases related to vertebral column (often presented to doctor as neck pain or stiffness, vertigo or dizziness, low back pain and pain or numbness radiating into legs) followed by head ache, sinusitis, too frequently recurring cold and running nose and digestive problems including excessive gas formation - flatulence- and pain in eye or problems of vision as third. More than 75% of them have complained of very high mental stress, sleeplessness and excessive fatigue. In comparison with normal population, computer professionals are highly prone to High blood pressure and diabetes, as a group, especially comprising of maximum number of youth. Fertility and marital bliss are also evading this supposed to be rich population at an alarming rate.

Studies suggest that 20 percent to 25 percent of computer users worldwide, both vocational and recreational, have symptoms related to their computer activities. The first CRI "epidemic" was noticed in Australia 15 years ago and then emerged in many other industrialized countries.

There is a great need for spreading awareness about CRI because it is devastating not only for injured party but it also affects company he works for. It accounted for 66% of work related illnesses in US, in 1999. The estimated costs in lost productivity and compensation due to it are in region of $60-100 billion annually. No one is immune to CRI, and it can seriously disrupt work and domestic life. About 20-25 % of all computer users worldwide are estimated to have it, which is why it is essential to raise public awareness as quickly as possible before a new generation of computer users is exposed to risks.

Due to lack of awareness about CRI, Computer users tend to ignore its initial symptoms. A survey of 500 software professionals at Hyderabad (in 2000) established that 50% had symptoms of established CRI. Preliminary results of an ongoing survey among over 400 IT professionals in projects it as high as 75%.

The pattern and nature of CRI in India is significantly different from that in west. There may be significant anthropological differences in body shape and dimensions work practices and furniture design that only a comprehensive study can unearth. As these problems are unique to our country, so should solutions.

In India, thanks to lack of adequate laws and procedures, employers don't have any obligation to compensate for problems accrued by employees in long run. Government laws and regulations on employee welfare and safety do not show any concern for provision of ergonomically designed office products, tools and work environment.

As more and more work, education and recreation involves computers, everyone needs to be aware of hazard of Repetitive Strain Injuries (Cumulative Trauma Disorder). i.e. to hands and arms resulting from use of computer keyboards and mice. This can be a serious and very painful condition that is far easier to prevent than to cure once contracted, and can occur even in young physically fit individuals. It is not uncommon for people to have to leave computer-dependent careers as a result, or even to be permanently disabled and unable to perform tasks such as driving or dressing themselves.

What are Symptoms? üTightness, discomfort, stiffness, soreness or burning in hands, wrists, fingers, forearms, or elbows üTingling, coldness, or numbness in hands

üClumsiness or loss of strength and coordination in hands üPain that wakes you up at night

üFeeling a need to massage your hands, wrists, and arms

üPain in upper back, shoulders, or neck associated with using computer.

WHO IS AT RISK?

Any computer keyboard user, including pre-school children, who uses computer 2 or more hours a day, is at high risk for CRI. They are in 20-40 year age group, which is most productive one. It is estimated that a large proportion of software professionals, students and other computer users (e.g. secretaries, clerks, cashiers, etc) in India would soon develop CRI, if current situation prevails.

As with other things in life, too much of anything is dangerous. But that doesn't mean that one should avoid using computers or alter duration of computing sessions. A judicious mix of working habits, proper ergonomic infrastructure support and medical support & care can prevent development of most of symptoms.

As you know, prevention is better than cure. Some prevention tips have been given which is sure to make you feel computing a safe & healthy experience.

MUSCULOSKELETAL PROBLEMS:

Let's face it. We're all going to eat chocolate for Valentine's Day. But there's no need to feel guilty! Chocolate is actually good for you…it's all things added to it that are problem. Here's how you can choose delicious healthy chocolates for your Valentine.

HEALTH BENEFITS

The gift of chocolate to a beloved as a token of love is more than just tradition. Naturally-occurring compounds in chocolate produce that mild euphoria of being in love and contribute to enjoyable interpersonal relations by elevating mood and enhancing sensory perception.

Beyond good feelings, chocolate benefits body in many ways. In moderation, chocolate can contribute to heart health, help you live longer, suppress a chronic cough, and add needed magnesium to your diet. Chocolate even contains a high level of chromium, which can help control blood sugar.

Chocolate does NOT cause acne, most headaches, or hyperactivity, and does not raise cholesterol.

HEALTH PROBLEMS

While chocolate itself is fine to eat, there are some substances present in chocolate products that you should watch out for.

Most chocolate products contain tremendous amounts of refined white sugar, which is harmful to health in many ways.

Chocolate may also contain pesticides. The EPA allows various levels of pesticide residue to be present in cocoa powder, and FDA Total Diet Study found them in many chocolate products.