Latest Health News
Global Cancer Cases Double Since 1990, Projected to Hit 30 Million by 2050
Cancer cases have surged to 18.5 million new diagnoses in 2023, with over 10 million deaths annually, doubling since 1990 and hitting low- and middle-income countries hardest. Around 40% of deaths are preventable via risk reduction like curbing smoking and poor diet. Urgent global action needed for prevention, early detection, and treatment access.
CDC Scales Back Childhood Vaccine Recommendations to 11 Diseases
CDC revised immunization schedule, limiting routine shots for hepatitis A/B, meningococcal, rotavirus, influenza, and RSV to high-risk groups or after provider consultation. Changes made without expert input, criticized by experts and Sen. Bill Cassidy. Effective immediately under acting director Jim O’Neill.
US Flu Season Hits 25-Year High with Subclade K Dominating
Flu activity at highest levels in 25 years across nearly all US states, driven by new subclade K strain, with record hospitalizations in New York. Respiratory illness visits at peak since 1997-98 season per CDC data. Australia's 2025 season extended, Hong Kong hit early.
Nine Children Die in US During 2025-2026 Flu Season
Nine pediatric deaths reported amid the ongoing severe flu season. Highlights risks of emerging influenza strains to vulnerable groups. Vaccination emphasized as key prevention amid global flu surges.
WHO Updates HIV Guidelines: Optimized ART, Vertical Transmission Prevention
New WHO recommendations advance antiretroviral therapy, vertical HIV transmission management, emphasizing breastfeeding up to 24 months with prophylaxis for exposed infants. Supports maternal choice and evidence-based approaches to end AIDS as public threat. Integrated into upcoming consolidated guidelines.
WHO Prioritizes 3HP TB Preventive Therapy for People Living with HIV
Tuberculosis leading death cause for HIV patients; WHO now prefers 3-month weekly isoniazid-rifapentine (3HP) regimen to boost uptake and completion. Aims to cut TB mortality via simplified integration of HIV-TB services. Other regimens remain options.
Trachoma Cases Drop: Population Needing Interventions Below 100 Million
First time global population requiring trachoma interventions falls under 100 million, down 94% since 2002 via SAFE strategy. 27 countries validated trachoma-free, including recent Egypt and Fiji. $300M needed for 2030 elimination.
Antibiotic Resistance Threatens 10 Million Deaths Yearly by 2050
Global resistome fueled by livestock, humans, environment; AR complicates treatments for pneumonia, UTIs via priority pathogens like Acinetobacter. Human misuse, poor hygiene accelerate crisis; One Health approach essential.
Emerging Infectious Diseases Pose Ongoing Global Risk in 2026
Vector-borne and zoonotic pathogens cause 62% of emerging diseases, remaining major health threat. ProMED reports surges in measles (DRC), hantavirus (Argentina), avian flu (South Korea), plague (Madagascar).
Waterborne diarrhea fatal in India, influenza outbreak in Spain elderly home.
Dewpoint Therapeutics Launches HPV Viral Condensate Phenomics Atlas
Gates Foundation-funded initiative to build integrated atlas for HPV, addressing global morbidity from virus-driven diseases. Aims to deepen understanding for researchers and translational efforts. Announced January 6, 2026.
Federal Judge Allows HHS to Share Basic Medicaid Data with ICE
Court permits sharing biographical info on Medicaid enrollees with ICE, limited to basics. Part of broader updates including 340B discounts, cervical screenings, nutrition guidelines. Impacts uninsured care funding post-ACA.