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Antibiotic-Resistant Infections Could Kill 40 Million by 2050, Study Warns

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A new study published in The Lancet warns that nearly 40 million people could die from antibiotic-resistant infections by 2050, as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) continues to rise globally. The study, led by researchers from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington, found that deaths from antibiotic-resistant infections have been steadily increasing since 1990 and are expected to accelerate in the coming decades. Senior author Christopher J.L. Murray called AMR a “big problem” that is here to stay. The study revealed that older adults are particularly vulnerable to these infections, with the number of AMR-related deaths among individuals aged 70 and older increasing by over 80% between 1990 and 2021. By 2050, deaths among seniors are expected to double, potentially surpassing those in all other age groups as the global population ages. The study, which analyzed 520 million data points from 204 countries, projected that around 39 million deaths from antibiotic-resistant infections could occur over the next 25 years, averaging about three deaths per minute. Regions like South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa are expected to bear the heaviest burden, with South Asia alone projected to account for 11.8 million deaths. Lead author Kevin Ikuta highlighted the role of antibiotic overuse and misuse in driving bacterial resistance. He emphasized the importance of better antibiotic stewardship to balance access to life-saving antibiotics while preventing their overuse. Experts like Ishani Ganguli from Harvard Medical School also stressed the need for reducing unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions, particularly for viral infections. The study calls for urgent global action to combat antibiotic resistance by improving infection prevention, promoting responsible antibiotic use, and developing new treatment options. Without these steps, the world faces a growing public health threat that could jeopardize common medical procedures and treatments. Source: NDTV

Telangana Farmers Suffer Severe Health Issues Due to Pesticide Exposure, Study Finds

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Farmers in Telangana are facing severe health challenges due to overexposure to pesticides, with many afflicted by respiratory diseases, skin irritations, asthma, and even chronic conditions such as Alzheimer’s and cancer, according to a recent study. Conducted by researchers from the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Nutrition and Osmania University, the study titled Biomonitoring of Pesticide Exposure and Its Health Implications in Agricultural Areas of Telangana, India highlights the alarming impact of pesticide overuse. The research, published by Elsevier, examined 493 farmers across Telangana, with 341 identified as part of the exposure group and 152 as the control group. Blood and urine tests revealed significantly elevated levels of pesticide residues in exposed farmers, including 28 different types of pesticides. Notably, 11 of these pesticides are classified as highly hazardous by the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Pesticide overuse has become a prevalent issue, especially among commercial growers who prioritize profit over safety. This has led to unsafe handling practices, lack of awareness regarding risks, and the use of banned chemicals. The exposed farmers were found to have higher levels of dialkyl phosphate (DAP) metabolites, indicating direct pesticide exposure, and lower levels of acetylcholinesterase enzymes, suggesting potential neurological damage. The study also revealed widespread unsafe practices, such as using bare hands to mix pesticides and improper storage and disposal, which increase the health risks for farmers. Researchers are advocating for the adoption of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices, such as using biopesticides, improved seed varieties, and more efficient irrigation and fertilization methods. Additionally, the study calls for regular biomonitoring and the use of personal protective equipment to minimize direct exposure to harmful pesticides. The findings emphasize the urgent need for better safety regulations and sustainable farming practices to protect the health of farmers in Telangana. Source: Times of India

UK Doctors Agree to 22.3% Pay Rise, Ending Strikes

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Junior doctors in England have accepted a 22.3% pay increase proposed by the government, officially ending a series of strikes that disrupted patient care over the past 18 months. The strikes were sparked by dissatisfaction with below-inflation wage increases since 2010 and the rising cost of living. The British Medical Association’s (BMA) Junior Doctors’ Committee confirmed that 66% of its members voted in favor of the pay offer. The deal was presented by the new Labour government soon after it took power in July, aiming to end the industrial action that saw junior doctors stage 11 walk-outs. Committee co-chairs Robert Laurenson and Vivek Trivedi acknowledged the deal as a positive step, stating it marked “the end of 15 years of pay erosion” and “the beginning of two years of modest above-inflation pay rises.” However, they also highlighted that doctors remain 20.8% behind in real terms compared to 2008. Health Secretary Wes Streeting welcomed the agreement, emphasizing that the government is addressing the issues left by the previous Conservative administration. He expressed relief that future strikes were averted ahead of winter, a period when the NHS typically faces heightened pressure due to seasonal illnesses. The junior doctors’ strikes were part of a wider wave of public and private sector walk-outs over pay and working conditions as inflation rates surged. Some junior doctors, despite having years of experience, complained that they were paid less per hour than coffee shop workers. The Labour government, while rejecting the BMA’s initial demand for a 35% “pay restoration,” moved quickly to resolve the dispute. In addition to the pay increase, Health Secretary Streeting also agreed to rename “junior doctors” as “resident doctors” to better reflect their expertise. Source: Health. Economic Times

Karnataka Health Department Partners with NIMHANS for Suicide Prevention Program

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The Karnataka Health Department announced its collaboration with the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) to develop a comprehensive suicide prevention program. The initiative, which aims to tackle the rising suicide rates in the state, was unveiled by Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao during the launch of the N-SPRITE Centre (NIMHANS Suicide Prevention, Research, Implementation, and Training Engagement) at NIMHANS in Bengaluru on Tuesday. Emphasizing the importance of a coordinated approach, Minister Rao highlighted that while the state already runs several mental health initiatives like the Karnataka Brain Health Initiative (KaBHI) and the District Mental Health Programme, a targeted suicide prevention strategy is needed. The collaboration with NIMHANS will focus on studying vulnerabilities to self-harm across various groups, including students, and implementing evidence-based interventions. “NIMHANS has a wealth of expertise in mental health research and intervention strategies, making them an ideal partner in this mission. By involving multiple government departments, we aim to create a holistic and effective program that addresses the root causes of suicide and offers support to those in need,” said Rao. The N-SPRITE Centre at NIMHANS will serve as the hub for this collaborative effort, integrating research, training, and implementation to create sustainable and impactful prevention strategies. The program will also include awareness campaigns, community engagement, and the training of healthcare professionals to better identify and manage individuals at risk. The initiative comes ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, a global observance dedicated to raising awareness about suicide and promoting preventive measures. Minister Rao’s announcement underscores the state’s commitment to enhancing mental health support and reducing suicide rates through a multi-faceted approach. With rising concerns about mental health and the increasing incidence of suicides among vulnerable groups, Karnataka’s partnership with NIMHANS is a significant step towards fostering a supportive environment for mental well-being. Source: Indian Express

Union Health Ministry Issues Mpox Guidelines to States, Focuses on Screening and Testing Suspected Cases

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Amid rising concerns about the spread of mpox, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra has issued new guidelines to all states, emphasizing the need for rigorous screening and testing of suspected cases. The health ministry’s directive comes after a suspected case was reported in Delhi, marking India’s first alert since the disease was classified as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization (WHO). The guidelines focus on four key steps for states to follow: Surveillance Training: States are instructed to train state and district-level surveillance teams on identifying suspected, probable, and confirmed mpox cases. Contact tracing and enhanced surveillance activities are crucial for early detection and containment. Healthcare Worker Training: Healthcare workers in clinics treating skin and sexually transmitted infections, along with those involved in the government’s HIV control program, must be trained on the signs, symptoms, and clinical management of mpox, while strictly adhering to isolation protocols. Screening and Testing: States are urged to carry out screening and testing of suspected cases, particularly among vulnerable groups such as men who have sex with men and sex workers. Testing facilities should be integrated into hospitals and identified HIV control program sites. Clear Communication: Effective communication about the risks of mpox is critical. The guidelines stress informing healthcare workers, hospital areas, and communities about the modes of transmission, symptoms, and the importance of timely reporting without inciting panic. The ministry has also asked states to identify isolation facilities for treating suspected and confirmed mpox cases. With a significant proportion of global cases being reported among people with HIV, state AIDS control societies have been asked to remain vigilant and monitor any emerging cases. The health ministry’s letter highlights the atypical spread of the deadlier Clade Ib of mpox through sexual contact, a shift from traditional transmission methods. The virus is predominantly affecting young men aged 18-44 years and is primarily spread through sexual and non-sexual close contact. Common symptoms include rashes, particularly on the body or genital region, and fever. Although India has reported 30 cases of the older mpox strain since 2022, the risk of sustained transmission within the country remains low, according to experts. The government continues to stress that while the situation requires vigilance, public panic should be avoided, and the focus should remain on prevention, awareness, and timely medical intervention. Source: Indian Express

India Records First Suspected Mpox Case; Patient in Isolation After International Travel

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India has recorded its first suspected case of mpox, a virus formerly known as monkeypox, in a young male patient who recently traveled from a country experiencing an outbreak. The health ministry announced that the patient is currently isolated in a hospital and is in stable condition, with ongoing measures to manage the case in line with established protocols. “The case is being managed in line with established protocols, and contact tracing is ongoing to identify potential sources and assess the impact within the country,” the health ministry said in a statement. While the specific strain of the virus is yet to be confirmed, tests are underway to identify the type of mpox infection. The mpox clade 1b variant, recently confirmed in Sweden and linked to an outbreak in Africa, has sparked global concern due to its rapid transmission through close contact. India has previously detected 30 cases of the older clade 2 strain between 2022 and March 2024. Mpox, originally identified in monkeys in 1958 and in humans in 1970, is transmitted from infected animals to humans and can spread through close physical contact. While typically mild, the virus can cause flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions, and is fatal in rare cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) renamed monkeypox to mpox last year, addressing concerns that the original name was perceived as racist. Recently, the WHO declared the mpox outbreak a public health emergency of international concern following the emergence of the new clade 1b variant. However, the WHO emphasized that mpox is not another COVID-19, despite its spread. Globally, over 17,500 mpox cases and 629 deaths have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) this year alone, where both clade 1b and 1a strains are present. The DRC has received its first batch of mpox vaccines to curb the outbreak, which has also spread to countries like Pakistan, the Philippines, and Thailand. India’s health ministry has assured that the country has robust measures in place to handle the situation, with efforts focused on containment and preventing further spread of the virus. Source: Aljazeera

Govt to Launch Central Database for Allied Healthcare Professionals Amid SC Directive

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The Union government is set to launch a central register for allied and healthcare professionals, creating a comprehensive database of qualified personnel across the country. This move is in response to the Supreme Court’s recent directive to both central and state governments to implement the National Commission of Allied and Healthcare Professionals (NCAHP) Act, 2021, by October 2024. The NCAHP Act, passed by Parliament in 2021, was designed to regulate and maintain standards of education and services provided by allied and healthcare professionals, along with the institutions that assess these professionals. The Act aims to standardize the training, qualifications, and practices of allied healthcare workers, ensuring high-quality care and services in the healthcare sector. The planned central register will serve as a vital repository of information, facilitating streamlined regulation and oversight. This initiative will enhance transparency and accountability while ensuring that only qualified individuals are allowed to practice. It will also address the pressing need for accurate data on the availability and distribution of allied healthcare professionals, a critical component in healthcare planning and policy formulation. The Supreme Court’s directive comes amid ongoing efforts to strengthen the healthcare sector in India, which relies significantly on allied healthcare professionals, including technicians, therapists, and other support staff. Implementing the NCAHP Act will not only elevate the professional standards but also contribute to the broader goals of improving healthcare delivery and patient outcomes. Officials believe that the creation of a central database will lead to better workforce management, aid in policy decisions, and help address shortages in various healthcare roles. The initiative is seen as a significant step towards recognizing the essential contributions of allied healthcare professionals in India’s medical ecosystem. Source: Business Standard

Health Union Launches ILLUMINÉ: A Revolutionary People-based Data Engine

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Health Union, a leader in condition-specific online health communities and patient engagement, has launched the ILLUMINÉ data engine, a groundbreaking innovation in direct-to-consumer (DTC) marketing and media solutions. Combining deep patient and caregiver insights with advanced data technology, ILLUMINÉ offers cutting-edge advertising solutions that prioritize privacy while delivering optimal results. For over a decade, Health Union’s online communities have served as trusted platforms where patients and caregivers find support, information, and connection during key moments of their health journeys. With ILLUMINÉ, Health Union uses knowledge engineering and machine learning to transform patient-reported data, collected transparently and with consent, into sophisticated business solutions across programmatic media, content sponsorships, and influencer marketing. ILLUMINÉ’s data engine leverages over 44 billion data points refreshed daily and more than 50 million unique patient IDs to connect brands with the right audiences at critical health moments based on contextual and behavioral triggers. With capabilities for persona-based segmentation and analysis across 100+ variables, ILLUMINÉ sets a new standard for precision and relevance in health marketing, offering brands a unique advantage over traditional health data providers. Built with a privacy-first approach, ILLUMINÉ ensures that community users’ data is protected while enabling Health Union’s audience-building methodology. Health Union recently achieved SOC 2 Type II compliance for its technology platforms, reinforcing its commitment to data security and responsible data management. Will Rompala, Chief Technology Officer at Health Union, emphasized the company’s dedication to privacy and security, stating that adherence to SOC 2 Type II standards is a testament to their efforts to protect patient and caregiver data, instilling confidence in future partnerships. Health Union is the leading provider of condition-specific, online health communities, reaching millions of people through platforms like Migraine.com and MultipleSclerosis.net. For over a decade, Health Union has transformed pharmaceutical and healthcare brand engagement, offering innovative solutions in advertising, market research, and clinical trials. Source: prnewswire  

Odisha Government Culls Over 11,700 Chickens Amid Bird Flu Outbreak, Health Department Issues Alert

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The Odisha government has culled over 11,700 chickens in Pipili, Puri district, following the detection of the H5N1 strain of avian influenza, an official reported on Monday. The culling operation began on Saturday after mass deaths of chickens were reported at a local poultry farm and was completed by Monday evening. Additional culling in homes and nearby villages is scheduled for Tuesday. Jagannath Nanda, Additional Director of Disease Control, stated that 13 rapid response teams are involved in the culling process, with some poultry farm owners independently conducting culling. No other unusual chicken deaths have been reported in other parts of the state, he added. In response to the outbreak, the state health department has heightened surveillance and issued an alert. Director of Health Services Bijay Mohapatra noted that while bird flu is not new to Odisha, the department is actively coordinating with stakeholders to manage the situation. He assured that there is an adequate supply of medicines and advised poultry workers to maintain hygiene and wear masks to prevent the spread of the virus. Source: Business Standard

Delhi Health Minister Highlights Doctors Shortage, Criticizes L-G for Inaction

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Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj has raised concerns about a significant shortage of doctors and specialists in the city’s hospitals, citing a nearly 30% vacancy rate. Despite repeated requests to the Lieutenant Governor (L-G), Bharadwaj claims no substantial efforts have been made to address these critical vacancies. He accused the L-G’s office of delaying appointments by citing excuses such as the unavailability of the Chief Minister and the lack of a National Capital Civil Service Authority (NCCSA) meeting. During a press conference, Bharadwaj outlined measures the Delhi government is taking to combat the spread of dengue, including directives for public announcements at metro stations, bus stations, and other transport hubs to raise awareness about dengue prevention. He emphasized the need for all government hospitals to be fully equipped to handle dengue cases and directed the Health Secretary to visit hospitals daily to ensure compliance, although he expressed uncertainty over the implementation of these orders. Bharadwaj also highlighted the need for schools to enforce full-sleeve clothing for students as a protective measure against mosquito bites. He noted plans to increase public awareness through radio ads, campaigns, posters, and announcements in metro and public transport stations. The Health Minister accused the L-G’s office of spreading false information and obstructing the recruitment process for medical staff in government hospitals. He criticized the L-G, appointed by the BJP-led central government, for evading responsibility during major crises in Delhi, including a recent incident at the Asha Kiran Home Shelter, where 13 residents died due to a lack of doctors and paramedical staff. Bharadwaj blamed this tragic outcome on the L-G’s failure to appoint necessary medical personnel, despite having authority over transfers and postings. Bharadwaj also pointed out that the L-G’s office issued a misleading statement claiming that the absence of an NCCSA meeting prevented staff appointments at Asha Kiran Home. However, these appointments were made following a court order without the need for an NCCSA meeting, which he said exposed the falsehoods propagated by the L-G’s office. The minister emphasized that many hospitals are currently managed by overburdened directors or medical superintendents due to staff shortages. He noted that multiple letters sent to the L-G’s office have gone unheeded, with responses citing reasons like the unavailability of the Chief Minister and procedural delays tied to NCCSA meetings. The NCCSA, chaired by the Delhi Chief Minister and including the Chief Secretary and Principal Secretary (Home), was formed in May to oversee service matters, including transfers and postings of Group ‘A’ officers in the Delhi government. Source: Business Standard