WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

Ensifentrine, a novel inhaled dual phosphodiesterase 3 and 4 inhibitor, showed significant improvements in lung function and COPD symptoms in Phase 2b trials, offering potential as a first-in-class therapy combining bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory effects.

The global cancer profiling market is set for significant growth from 2021 to 2031, driven by precision medicine and advanced oncology care. Technological advancements like nanomedicine and next-generation sequencing are enhancing diagnostics. The market, valued at over US$ 900 million in 2018, is propelled by increased cancer prevalence and demand for personalized treatments. Key players are leveraging innovations and strategic partnerships to expand their market presence.

Chronic diseases are a leading cause of death globally, with implantable drug delivery devices offering a solution by ensuring controlled, continuous drug release, reducing patient non-compliance and systemic side effects. These devices, including pumps and polymers, are gaining interest for their potential in both developed and developing countries, aiming to improve healthcare access and reduce mortality. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation supports the development of long-term drug delivery implants to address medication non-adherence in developing countries, focusing on contraceptives and HIV prevention. Despite challenges like cost and patient acceptance, implantable devices promise to transform chronic disease treatment by minimizing healthcare visits and improving treatment adherence.

Fluoride, abundant in nature, primarily sourced from water, is crucial for preventing dental caries. While water fluoridation is effective, alternatives like milk and salt fluoridation are explored due to feasibility and cost concerns. However, excessive fluoride intake raises toxicity concerns, leading to debates and bans in some countries. The article reviews fluoride's benefits, risks, and various delivery methods for dental health.

BMI is a key measure for overweight (25-29.9 kg/m²) and obesity (≥30 kg/m²), with higher risks of diseases like diabetes and CVD. Ethnic differences in BMI-related risks exist, with Asians at higher risk at lower BMIs. Obesity prevalence is higher in non-Hispanic blacks and Hispanics. Overweight and obesity increase morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Treatment includes lifestyle changes, medication, and surgery, with bariatric surgery being the most effective.

Global guidelines recommend colorectal cancer (CRC) screening for average-risk individuals aged 50-75, using colonoscopy (every 10 years), flexible sigmoidoscopy (every 5 years), or fecal occult blood tests (annually/biennially). Discrepancies exist in test preferences, intervals, and age ranges. FIT is favored over gFOBT for its higher sensitivity and specificity. Screening decisions should consider resource availability and individual preferences.

COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective, with most side effects being mild and short-lived. EMA emphasizes consulting reliable sources for vaccine information and addresses common misconceptions. Vaccines reduce virus transmission and are updated to combat new variants. Continuous safety monitoring ensures public health protection.

Leishmaniasis, caused by Leishmania protozoans, affects over 350 million people globally, with 1.3 million new cases annually. It manifests in visceral and cutaneous forms, transmitted by sandflies. Visceral leishmaniasis, caused by L. donovani and L. infantum, is lethal, while cutaneous leishmaniasis results in skin lesions. Treatment and understanding of the disease's mechanisms remain challenging.

Mental health services in LMICs face challenges like scarce resources, stigma, and cultural barriers. Solutions include integrating care into primary health, leveraging community and family support, and adapting evidence-based treatments to local cultures. Political will, improved legislation, and resource allocation are crucial for progress.

Lung cancer, primarily caused by tobacco smoking, is the leading cause of cancer deaths globally, with significant variations in mortality rates across regions. Smoking prevalence trends, lagging 20-30 years, influence lung cancer mortality rates. Effective tobacco control policies are crucial to reduce smoking prevalence and lung cancer deaths, especially in low- and middle-income countries.