Latest Health News
WHO and Korea Foundation Sign Donor Agreement to Boost Pacific Health Workforce Against NCDs
On Universal Health Coverage Day, WHO Western Pacific and the Korea Foundation for International Healthcare signed an agreement to strengthen health workforce capacity in Pacific island countries facing rising non-communicable diseases (NCDs) due to aging populations and lifestyle changes. This addresses shortages in trained personnel and geographic challenges in remote archipelagos.
The initiative supports WHO's regional strategy for 2025-2029.
PAHO Urges Americas to Prioritize Financial Protection for Universal Health
PAHO calls on countries in the Americas to boost health investments and primary care to prevent financial hardship from medical costs on Universal Health Coverage Day. Millions face direct payment burdens, forcing choices between health and basic needs like food.
Reforms aim to reduce inequities through inclusive services.
Indonesia Advances Universal Health Coverage with Remaining Gaps Addressed
A WHO and World Bank report highlights Indonesia's progress in ensuring health access without financial hardship, marking steady UHC gains on December 12, 2025. Challenges persist, but efforts continue toward full coverage.
Jakarta emphasizes equitable services.
CRISPR Gene Editing Successfully Treats Baby with Rare Metabolic Disorder
Doctors used custom CRISPR to treat a baby boy with a life-threatening metabolic disorder, enabling his liver cells to produce a crucial enzyme. Within months, the child ate more protein and reduced medication.
This paves the way for personalized therapies for rare genetic diseases.
Gene-Edited CAR-T Cells Show Breakthrough in Aggressive T-Cell Leukemia
Base-edited immune cells achieved a major breakthrough in treating tough T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a hard-to-treat blood cancer. The therapy precisely targets cancer cells.
Advances also noted in personalized cancer treatments.
FDA Approves Long-Acting HIV PrEP Injection with Near 100% Efficacy
Yeztugo (lenacapavir), a two-yearly injectable PrEP for HIV, was approved, demonstrating nearly 100% effectiveness in preventing transmission. This marks a significant step in HIV prevention.
It offers a convenient alternative to daily pills.
Novel Anti-Malaria Antibodies Identified for Potential Durable Vaccines
Researchers discovered a new class of antibodies targeting a stable internal malaria parasite structure, opening paths for long-lasting vaccines. This advances malaria control efforts.
The finding promises more effective prevention.
Non-Hormonal Pill Lynkuet Approved for Severe Menopause Hot Flashes
The FDA approved Lynkuet (elinzanetant), a daily non-hormonal pill for moderate to severe hot flashes in menopause, aiding those unable to use hormone therapy. It provides a safer alternative.
This addresses a key women's health need.
Neffy Nasal Spray Debuts as Needle-Free Epinephrine for Allergies
Neffy, the first prescription epinephrine nasal spray, offers a needle-free option for anaphylaxis in children aged four and older, updating allergy care. It's a major advance in decades.
Easier administration improves emergency response.
First Proton Arc Therapy Treatments Delivered to Cancer Patients
Italy's Trento Proton Therapy Centre performed the first clinical proton arc therapy (PAT) on nine patients, enhancing precision cancer treatment by using arc trajectories for better dosing. It integrates with existing systems.
This overcomes limits of traditional proton beam scanning.
Up to 90% in Some Countries Rely on Traditional Medicine, WHO Notes
WHO reports up to 90% of people in certain countries use traditional medicine, highlighting its global role amid a summit on indigenous knowledge. This underscores integration needs in health systems.
It supports diverse health approaches.