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WHO Estimates COVID-19 Linked to 22.1 Million Excess Deaths Worldwide Between 2020 and 2023

/ Health & Wellness Community

A new report released by the World Health Organization has revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with an estimated 22.1 million excess deaths globally between 2020 and 2023, underscoring the devastating impact the crisis had on health systems and societies worldwide. Published in the WHO’s latest World Health Statistics report, the figure is more than three times higher than the officially reported COVID-19 death toll, as it includes both direct fatalities caused by the virus and indirect deaths resulting from disrupted healthcare services, delayed treatments, and strained medical systems. According to the report, the pandemic erased nearly a decade of progress in global life expectancy, with recovery remaining slow and uneven across different regions of the world. Despite the setbacks, the report highlighted encouraging progress in several public health areas. New HIV infections declined by 40% between 2010 and 2024, while tobacco and alcohol consumption also registered reductions during the same period. The number of people requiring treatment for neglected tropical diseases dropped by 36%. The WHO further noted improvements in access to essential services between 2015 and 2024. Nearly 961 million people gained access to safe drinking water, 1.2 billion received improved sanitation facilities, 1.6 billion gained access to basic hygiene services, and 1.4 billion people benefited from cleaner cooking solutions. Regional progress was also evident in some areas. The WHO African Region recorded a 70% reduction in HIV infections and a 28% decline in tuberculosis cases, outperforming global averages. Meanwhile, the South-East Asia Region was reported to be on course to meet its 2025 malaria reduction milestone. However, the report warned that several health challenges continue to threaten global progress. Malaria incidence has risen by 8.5% since 2015, moving the world further away from international targets. Anaemia continues to affect 30.7% of women of reproductive age globally, with little improvement over the last decade. The prevalence of overweight children under five reached 5.5% in 2024, while violence against women remains a serious concern, with one in four women worldwide experiencing intimate partner violence. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the findings reflect “both progress and persistent inequality,” adding that millions of people, especially women, children, and underserved populations, still lack access to the fundamental conditions required for healthy living. The report also expressed concern over slowing progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Between 2015 and 2023, the global UHC service coverage index improved only slightly from 68 to 71. Additionally, one in four people globally experienced financial hardship due to healthcare expenses, while nearly 1.6 billion people were either living in or pushed into poverty because of out-of-pocket medical costs in 2022. Childhood vaccination coverage also remains below global targets, contributing to renewed outbreaks of preventable diseases. Although maternal mortality has declined by 40% since 2000 and under-five mortality by 51%, many nations are still unlikely to meet the 2030 health goals. Progress in reducing deaths from non-communicable diseases has slowed considerably since 2015. The WHO further highlighted environmental and lifestyle risks contributing to poor health outcomes. Air pollution was linked to an estimated 6.6 million deaths globally in 2021, while unsafe water, sanitation, and hygiene conditions contributed to 1.4 million deaths in 2019. Yukiko Nakatani stressed the urgent need for stronger investment in primary healthcare, prevention strategies, and sustainable health financing to build more resilient healthcare systems. The report also exposed major shortcomings in global health data collection. By the end of 2025, only 18% of countries were reporting mortality data to the WHO within a year, and nearly one-third had never submitted cause-of-death information. Out of an estimated 61 million deaths worldwide in 2023, only about one-third included cause-of-death reporting, while just one-fifth contained properly coded International Classification of Diseases (ICD) data. The WHO warned that these data gaps severely weaken the ability of governments and health agencies to monitor disease trends, compare health outcomes internationally, and respond effectively to future public health emergencies. Source: The Hindu

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PCOS Renamed as PMOS in Landmark Move to Improve Global Diagnosis and Women’s Healthcare

/ Health & Wellness Community

In a major step toward better awareness and treatment, the condition long known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) has officially been renamed Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS). The disorder affects more than 170 million women globally, or roughly 1 in 8 women, and experts say the new name more accurately reflects its complex nature. The renaming initiative was the result of a 14-year international collaboration involving over 50 medical and patient advocacy organizations, including the Endocrine Society. The announcement and findings were published in The Lancet. Health experts explained that the old term “PCOS” often created confusion by focusing on ovarian cysts, despite evidence showing that abnormal cysts are not a defining feature of the condition. This misunderstanding frequently led to delayed diagnoses, incomplete treatment, and a narrow view of a disorder that also impacts hormones, metabolism, mental health, skin, weight management, and reproductive health. Professor Helena Teede of Monash University, who led the global process, said the new terminology is designed to improve recognition and long-term care for millions of women. She noted that although medical guidelines have improved over time, changing the name was essential to better reflect the science and lived experiences of patients. The consultation process included more than 22,000 survey responses, workshops with healthcare professionals, and direct input from women living with the condition across multiple countries. Experts also emphasized the importance of selecting a name that works across cultures and avoids unnecessary stigma, especially in regions where reproductive terminology can carry social sensitivity. A three-year transition period has now begun, with global education campaigns underway. PMOS is expected to be fully adopted in the 2028 International Guideline update. Patient advocates welcomed the change, calling it a historic moment that could lead to earlier diagnosis, fairer healthcare access, and stronger research investment for future generations. Source: Endocrine Society  

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WHO Chief Warns ‘Work Not Over’ After Hantavirus Cruise Ship Evacuation

/ Health & Wellness Community

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has said global efforts to contain the hantavirus situation are still ongoing, following the evacuation of passengers from the cruise ship MV Hondius after a deadly outbreak onboard. Speaking on Tuesday, May 12, at a joint press conference in Madrid alongside Pedro Sánchez, the WHO chief stated that while the immediate response had progressed, the threat had not fully passed. “Our work is not over,” Tedros said, adding that there was currently no evidence of a wider outbreak. However, he cautioned that the long incubation period of the virus means more cases could still emerge in the coming weeks. The MV Hondius has drawn international concern after three passengers died from the rare disease. Health experts, however, stressed that the current global public health risk remains low and said the situation should not be compared to the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic. Over 120 passengers and crew members were airlifted from Spain’s Canary Islands on Sunday and Monday. Many countries have adopted precautionary measures for returning evacuees, with most following WHO guidance that recommends a 42-day quarantine and close monitoring of high-risk contacts. In contrast, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States indicated that American evacuees may not automatically face quarantine. Acting CDC director Jay Bhattacharya said quarantine decisions would depend on individual circumstances. The handling of the ship also created diplomatic tension, as nations debated who would host the vessel and care for passengers. Cape Verde declined to receive the ship while it remained offshore near Praia, leading to emergency evacuations of critically ill passengers to Europe. Spain later permitted the vessel to anchor near the Canary Islands for evacuation operations, though regional leaders reportedly opposed the move. Defending Spain’s response, Sánchez said the world needs cooperation rather than fear, adding that nations must act with solidarity during such crises. Source: AFP Photo Credit: Reuters

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Wealthy Nations May Eliminate Cervical Cancer by 2048, Poorer Countries Risk Falling Behind: Lancet Study

/ Health & Wellness Community

High-income countries could eliminate cervical cancer by 2048, but low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are expected to witness only modest declines over the next century, according to a new study published in The Lancet. Researchers warn that unless urgent action is taken, global inequalities in cervical cancer burden will widen sharply. The study found that richer nations are making rapid progress through strong vaccination and screening programmes, while poorer countries continue to face slower implementation, limited healthcare access, and lower coverage rates. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, with nearly 99% of cases linked to high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, a common virus transmitted through sexual contact, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Prevention through HPV vaccination and regular screening remains the most effective strategy. WHO Elimination Targets The WHO defines cervical cancer elimination as reducing incidence to fewer than four cases per one lakh women. To achieve this, countries are urged to meet the 90-70-90 goals by 2030: 90% of girls fully vaccinated against HPV by age 15 70% of women screened by ages 35 and 45 90% of women with pre-cancer or cancer receiving treatment Researchers said meeting these targets could prevent 37 million cervical cancer cases globally over the next 100 years. Slow Progress in Lower-Income Nations The study modelled five HPV prevention strategies for LMICs, including a continuation of current efforts. Under the “status quo” scenario, cervical cancer incidence in these countries would decline by only 23%, while wealthier countries could eliminate the disease entirely by mid-century. However, if LMICs achieve 90% vaccination coverage among girls, many regions outside sub-Saharan Africa could also move toward elimination. New Hope Through Affordable Vaccines The authors pointed to recent advances such as lower-cost vaccines, single-dose schedules, expanded screening programmes, and vaccinating multiple age groups, which could make cervical cancer elimination more realistic worldwide. Including boys in vaccination drives may further strengthen prevention efforts. They stressed that stronger global cooperation, higher investment, and support from governments and international health agencies are essential to close the gap. India Outlook A 2022 study published in The Lancet Oncology estimated that a single-dose HPV vaccine with 90% coverage could prevent up to 78% of cervical cancer cases among vaccinated birth cohorts in India, with high-incidence states likely to benefit the most. Source: PTI Photo Credit: Getty Images

Wealthy Nations May Eliminate Cervical Cancer by 2048, Poorer Countries Risk Falling Behind: Lancet Study Read More »

AI boosts breast cancer detection in routine scans, landmark trial shows

/ Health & Wellness Community

Artificial intelligence can significantly improve the detection of breast cancer during routine screening, according to findings from a world-first clinical trial released on Friday. The results point to AI as a potential solution to both diagnostic gaps and rising workload pressures faced by radiologists globally. Published in The Lancet, the study is the first completed randomised controlled trial to rigorously evaluate AI-assisted breast cancer screening. Conducted in Sweden, the trial followed more than 100,000 women who underwent routine mammography in 2021 and 2022. Participants were randomly divided into two groups. One group had their scans reviewed by a single radiologist supported by an AI system, while the other followed the standard European protocol of double reading by two radiologists. The outcomes showed that the AI-assisted approach identified 9% more cancer cases than the conventional method. Importantly, over a two-year follow-up period, women in the AI-supported group had a 12% lower incidence of “interval cancers” — cancers detected between regular screening rounds, which are often more aggressive. The benefits were consistent across age groups and breast density levels, and the rate of false positives remained comparable between both groups. Kristina Lang, senior author of the study and a researcher at Lund University, said the findings indicate that large-scale adoption of AI-supported mammography could ease staffing pressures in radiology departments while improving early cancer detection. However, she emphasised that any rollout must be done carefully, with ongoing evaluation and oversight. Experts cautioned that AI should complement, not replace, human expertise. Jean-Philippe Masson, head of the French National Federation of Radiologists, noted that radiologists must validate AI-generated findings, as the technology can sometimes flag benign tissue changes as cancer. He also pointed out that high costs and concerns around overdiagnosis have slowed AI adoption in countries like France. Stephen Duffy, emeritus professor of cancer screening at Queen Mary University of London, who was not involved in the research, said the trial adds to growing evidence that AI-assisted screening is safe. However, he flagged that the reduction in interval cancers was not statistically significant and called for longer follow-up to assess whether outcomes between the two groups eventually converge. Earlier interim results from the trial, published in 2023, showed that AI nearly halved the time radiologists spent reviewing mammograms. The AI system used in the study, Transpara, was trained on over 200,000 mammography exams from 10 countries. Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, more than 2.3 million women were diagnosed with the disease and around 670,000 died from it in 2022. Source: PTI

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WHO Report Finds Less Than 5% of Disease-Focused Genomic Studies Conducted in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

/ Health & Wellness Community

A recent global analysis by the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed a sharp imbalance in disease-focused genomic research, with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) accounting for less than five per cent of such studies worldwide. According to the WHO, more than 6,500 genomic clinical studies were registered globally between 1990 and 2024 through its International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. The number of studies rose sharply after 2010, driven by rapid advancements in genome sequencing technologies, reduced costs, and expanding clinical applications. Despite this growth, over 80 per cent of genomic research remains concentrated in high-income countries. China emerged as the leading country in terms of the total number of registered genomic clinical studies over the past three decades, followed by the United States and Italy. India ranked among the top 20 countries globally. However, the report noted that LMICs are rarely in leadership roles within such research. India participated in 235 studies, while Egypt, South Africa, and Nigeria featured in 38, 17, and 14 studies respectively—mostly as part of multi-country collaborations rather than as lead partners. The analysis, titled “Human genomics technologies in clinical studies: the research landscape,” highlighted that cancer, rare diseases, and metabolic disorders together account for more than 75 per cent of all genomic studies globally. While these areas were early adopters of genomic approaches, the report flagged a major gap in research on infectious diseases. Communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV, and malaria represented just three per cent of all genomic studies, despite their significant contribution to the global disease burden—particularly in low-resource settings. The authors described this as a missed opportunity to use genomics to better understand disease susceptibility, treatment response, and host–pathogen interactions. The WHO study also pointed to demographic gaps in genomic research. Over three-quarters of studies focused on adults aged 18 to 64, while only 4.6 per cent targeted children and just 3.3 per cent involved older adults. Calling for urgent action, the WHO urged more inclusive, geographically balanced, and locally relevant genomic research. Recommendations included greater investment in genomic infrastructure and research capacity in underrepresented regions, stronger leadership from LMIC-based institutions, better alignment of research priorities with local disease burdens, and increased inclusion of children, older adults, and other underrepresented populations. Source: PTI

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Single HPV Shot Shown to Offer Strong Protection Against Cervical Cancer, Major Study Finds

/ Health & Wellness Community

A landmark international study suggests that one dose of the HPV vaccine may be just as effective as the standard two-dose regimen, potentially transforming cervical cancer prevention efforts worldwide. Researchers announced on Wednesday that a single human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine shot provided nearly the same level of protection against the virus strains most linked to cervical cancer. HPV is a widespread sexually transmitted infection, and while most cases resolve on their own, persistent infections can lead to cervical cancer and several less common cancers in both women and men. The HPV vaccine has been advised for U.S. girls since 2006, contributing to a decline in precancerous cervical conditions among women in their 20s — the first cohort vaccinated in adolescence. Still, cervical cancer remains a major global threat, causing around 340,000 deaths annually, particularly in parts of the world where vaccination access is limited. The promising findings come from a large Costa Rica-based trial led by the U.S. National Cancer Institute, involving more than 20,000 girls aged 12 to 16. Participants received one of two widely used HPV vaccines. After six months, half received a second dose while the other half were given a different childhood vaccine. Over five years of follow-up, researchers conducted regular cervical screenings and compared results with an unvaccinated control group. Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the study concluded that a single dose offered about 97% protection, essentially matching the effectiveness of two doses. Dr. Ruanne Barnabas of Massachusetts General Hospital, in an accompanying editorial, highlighted that while earlier studies hinted at single-dose efficacy, this research solidifies long-term confidence in the approach. “We now have the evidence and tools to eliminate cervical cancer — what’s needed is the global commitment to deploy them effectively and fairly,” Barnabas wrote. In the U.S., two doses remain the official recommendation for children aged 11 or 12, with catch-up vaccinations advised up to age 26. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 78% of teens aged 13 to 17 have received at least one dose. Worldwide, however, fewer than one-third of adolescent girls are vaccinated, according to the World Health Organization, which has already begun supporting single-dose strategies to improve coverage. Researchers noted that the study did not assess protection against other HPV-related cancers, such as those of the head and neck, and stressed that longer-term monitoring is still necessary. Source: AP

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Kidney Cancer Cases Could Nearly Double Worldwide by 2050: Study

/ Health & Wellness Community
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A new global study warns that kidney cancer cases may almost double over the next quarter century if current health trends continue. Researchers from Europe, the US, and the UK examined data from the Global Cancer Observatory of the International Agency for Research on Cancer, projecting a dramatic surge in both incidence and mortality. In 2022, around 435,000 new cases and 156,000 deaths from kidney cancer were recorded worldwide. By 2050, the figures could rise to nearly 746,000 cases (a 72% increase) and over 304,000 deaths (a 96% rise), according to findings published in European Urology. The rise is linked largely to modifiable risk factors such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and physical inactivity, alongside environmental exposures. While 5–8% of cases are estimated to have a genetic basis, researchers emphasized that more than half of all kidney cancer cases are preventable. “Kidney cancer is becoming a global health challenge. Clinicians and policymakers must brace for this sharp increase,” said senior author Alexander Kutikov, Chair of the Department of Urology at Fox Chase Cancer Center in the US. He noted that lifestyle interventions—including maintaining a healthy weight, controlling blood sugar and blood pressure, and quitting smoking—can substantially reduce risk. The study also revealed wide geographical and gender-based disparities in incidence and survival. Five-year survival rates currently range between 40% and 75%, with wealthier nations expected to benefit from early detection through routine imaging and better access to advanced treatments such as surgery and radiotherapy. The findings add to a broader global concern: a recent Lancet analysis estimated that annual cancer deaths of all types may climb by 75% over the next 25 years. Alarmingly, 40% of these deaths are linked to 44 preventable risk factors, including poor diet, tobacco, and high blood sugar. Source: PTI

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The Changing Face of Health: Why Prevention Matters More Than Cure

/ Article/Stories

Health is no longer just about curing illnesses — it is about building resilience, balance, and longevity. In an age where medical technology is advancing rapidly, one truth stands out: most health challenges of today can be prevented through timely lifestyle choices. From Reactive to Proactive Healthcare Traditionally, healthcare systems have been reactive, stepping in only after illness occurs. But the global rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) — such as diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disorders, and cancers — is changing that mindset. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), NCDs account for over 70% of global deaths each year, many of which are linked to modifiable factors like poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and stress. Preventive healthcare focuses on early detection, timely intervention, and healthy living habits. Regular health check-ups, vaccinations, screenings, and wellness programs can significantly reduce the burden of disease, not just on individuals but also on healthcare systems. The Mind-Body Connection Health is multidimensional. Beyond physical well-being, mental health is increasingly recognized as a key factor. Stress, depression, and anxiety often manifest in the body as fatigue, poor immunity, or even chronic illness. For example, long-term stress can contribute to hypertension and heart disease. To counter this, practices like yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, and mindfulness are gaining popularity worldwide. Social support systems — family, friends, and community engagement — also play a powerful role in maintaining mental wellness. Nutrition and Lifestyle: The Foundation of Good Health The saying “we are what we eat” has never been truer. Diets rich in whole foods, fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats are proven to reduce the risk of lifestyle-related conditions. On the other hand, excessive consumption of processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats is directly linked to obesity and metabolic disorders. Equally important is physical activity. Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, which could be as simple as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. Combined with quality sleep and adequate hydration, these habits form the foundation of long-term health. Technology: A Game-Changer in Healthcare Digital health tools are reshaping the way people monitor and manage their well-being. Wearable devices can track heart rate, sleep quality, and physical activity, while telemedicine platforms make healthcare accessible from home. Artificial intelligence (AI) is being used to detect early signs of diseases through scans and lab data, helping doctors make faster and more accurate diagnoses. This patient-centric approach empowers individuals to take control of their health, reducing dependency on hospitals for routine care. Community and Policy Initiatives Health is not just personal — it is social. Governments, workplaces, and schools are increasingly adopting wellness programs, from fitness incentives to mental health counseling. Public awareness campaigns on vaccination, hygiene, and balanced diets continue to play a pivotal role in improving community health standards. Policies that encourage pollution control, clean water, urban green spaces, and accessible healthcare facilities further strengthen the foundation of healthier societies. Building a Healthier Future The future of healthcare lies in a holistic model — where physical, mental, social, and environmental health are interconnected. Instead of waiting for illness to strike, people and systems must embrace prevention as the core of well-being. By making conscious choices — nutritious eating, regular exercise, stress management, technology-driven monitoring, and preventive check-ups — individuals can not only add years to life but also life to years. As the adage goes, “Health is wealth.” In the 21st century, that wealth depends on how well we balance innovation, awareness, and proactive living.

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Breakthrough in Understanding Childhood Immunity to Strep A Could Accelerate Vaccine Development

/ Health & Wellness Community

A team of scientists has uncovered how young children naturally build immunity against Group A Streptococcus (Strep A), a bacterial infection responsible for up to half a million deaths worldwide each year. The finding could significantly speed up the creation of a life-saving vaccine. Strep A is a common bacterium that can cause mild illnesses like sore throat and skin infections, but in severe cases, it can trigger life-threatening diseases. While deaths from Strep A are rare in wealthier nations, outbreaks can be devastating. In late 2022, a surge in cases across the UK and Europe claimed hundreds of lives, including those of many children. The burden is far greater in low- and middle-income countries, where thousands die annually from the infection. Researchers from the University of Sheffield, working with the Medical Research Council (MRC) Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, tracked how Gambian children acquire natural immunity. Published in Nature Medicine, the study identified specific antibodies linked to protection from Strep A, marking a crucial step toward vaccine design. The team observed that babies are born with some immunity passed down from their mothers, but this protection fades quickly. Young children, however, develop robust antibody responses to different components of the bacteria after repeated exposure. This discovery pinpoints a key window for immune development, which could guide more effective vaccination strategies. Lead researcher Dr. Alex Keeley said this is the first time scientists have seen in humans how antibodies generated through vaccination might prevent Strep A infections. Gambian scientist Fatouamta Camara described the infection’s “devastating burden” on communities and expressed hope that a vaccine could break the cycle of illness and socio-economic hardship. The research was a collaboration between Sheffield’s Florey Institute of Infection and the GSK Vaccine Institute for Global Health. Professor Thushan de Silva, who co-directed the study, emphasised the importance of cross-institutional efforts in delivering impactful global health research. Source: PTI

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