Latest Health News
WHO Issues First-Ever Global Guidelines for GLP-1 Obesity Medications
The WHO released its first global guidance on GLP-1 medications (like semaglutide and tirzepatide) for adults with obesity, recommending long-term, continuous use when clinically appropriate and as part of a comprehensive approach including diet and exercise ,
,
,
,
. The guidelines stress that these drugs alone are not a solution to the obesity epidemic and call for improved access and affordability worldwide
,
.
Obesity Crisis: 1 Billion Affected, 3.7 Million Deaths in 2024
Obesity affects over 1 billion people globally and was linked to 3.7 million deaths in 2024, with projections that the number could double by 2030 without stronger action ,
. The WHO warns of immense pressure on health systems and economic losses if the trend continues
.
GLP-1 Medication Access Remains a Major Hurdle
Despite WHO recommendations, demand for GLP-1 weight-loss drugs far exceeds supply, and fewer than 10% of eligible people are expected to have access by 2030 . The WHO urges countries to prioritize those with the greatest medical need and build fair, affordable pathways to treatment
,
.
UNAIDS to Wind Down by 2026, Raising Global AIDS Response Concerns
UNAIDS is set to be wound down by 2026, merging with WHO, which has raised concerns about the future of global AIDS efforts and the 2030 target to end AIDS . The move follows funding cuts and skepticism about WHO's capacity to maintain inclusive, community-responsive programs
.
Climate Change Fuels Global Rise in Infectious Diseases
A new study warns of a 'creeping catastrophy' as climate change drives a global increase in infectious diseases like malaria and dengue, posing new public health challenges . The findings highlight the urgent need for climate-resilient health systems
.
US HHS Appoints Vaccine Critic Martin Kulldorff as Chief Science Officer
Martin Kulldorff, a well-known vaccine critic, has been appointed as the Chief Science Officer at the US Department of Health and Human Services, signaling a shift in US health policy . The move has sparked debate about the direction of federal health guidance
.
CMS Ends Major Dialysis Treatment Experiment
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, led by Mehmet Oz, will end its End-Stage Renal Disease Treatment Choices (ETC) model on December 31, cutting short a large-scale experiment to change dialysis care in the US . The decision follows a final rule published in the Federal Register
.
Corticosteroids May Improve Short-Term Survival in Severe Pneumonia and ARDS
A meta-analysis of randomized trials suggests corticosteroids can reduce short-term mortality in patients with severe pneumonia or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), but evidence for long-term benefits is unclear . The findings could influence clinical practice for critical care
.
WHO Provides Emergency Funds for Cyclone-Hit Sri Lanka
The WHO has provided emergency funds to scale up health response in Sri Lanka following a cyclone, aiming to address urgent medical needs and prevent disease outbreaks . The move underscores the WHO's role in disaster response
.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025 Focuses on Inclusive Societies
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025, observed on December 2, promotes the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities and calls for more inclusive health and social systems . Events and campaigns highlight the importance of disability-inclusive policies
.