WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

1-year adjuvant trastuzumab in ERBB2-positive breast cancer patients improved DFS compared to 9-week treatment, with 5-year DFS rates of 90.7% and 87.7%, respectively. Multivariable analysis indicated death risk was associated with positive axillary nodes, age, and disease stage, but not ER status or treatment group. The SOLD trial's findings align with the ShortHER trial, suggesting no interaction between treatment group and axillary nodal metastasis category.

Off-patent medicines, comprising 80% of global prescriptions, sustain healthcare through lower prices (up to 85% less) due to competition and reduced costs. They undergo rigorous testing for quality and efficacy, crucial for treatments from minor infections to advanced care, exemplified by antibiotics. The World Health Organization highlights the affordability barrier, especially in low-income countries where medicine costs can reach 66% of healthcare budgets.

Valneva SE submits label extension applications to EMA and Health Canada to expand IXCHIQ® chikungunya vaccine use to adolescents aged 12-17, with 2-year antibody persistence data included. The vaccine is currently approved for individuals 18 and older in the U.S., Europe, and Canada, with first sales anticipated in Q4 2024. Valneva also expects marketing authorization in Brazil and expanded access in Low Middle-Income Countries with CEPI funding.

Apple's latest updates to Apple Watch and AirPods Pro 2 include sleep apnea detection and hearing aid capabilities, approved by the FDA.

The FDA doesn't recognize aging as a disease, hindering anti-aging therapy approval. However, WHO's ICD-11 includes 'Ageing associated decline in intrinsic capacity,' suggesting potential for FDA reconsideration.

As of 1 April 2023, 761,402,282 COVID-19 cases and 6,887,000 deaths (CFR: 1%) reported globally by 232 countries to WHO.

Diagnostic errors affect 1 in 20 adults annually, with cancer being the most severe misdiagnosis. These errors impact clinical trial participation, where late-stage patients may face increased risks. Solutions include centralised review teams, improved care coordination, and establishing Diagnostic Safety Centers of Excellence. Drug safety/pharmacovigilance (DSPV) plays a crucial role in safeguarding patient safety and ensuring accurate reporting to regulatory agencies.

The Global Gene Therapy Market is valued at USD 2.4 billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 19.25% during 2024-2035. Gene therapies aim to treat genetic disorders by introducing healthy genes or inactivating faulty ones. The market has seen significant advancements, with 345 companies involved in developing therapies, and 1,100 active clinical trials in April 2024. By 2034, gene therapies are expected to treat over 65.6 million patients.

Thalidomide tragedy led to ethical concerns, cost, and legal risks preventing drug testing in pregnant women, resulting in common off-label use. Despite societal fears, medication use in pregnancy increased, with 63% of Danish pregnancies receiving at least one prescription in 2018. Barriers to testing include historical exclusion of pregnant women from trials, lack of incentives for drug companies, and prescriber/patient concerns. The WHO advocates for 'protection through research' to ensure safety.