Cabinet has welcomed the swift response by the Department of Agriculture following an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) that has affected KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and Gauteng.
“Despite the warnings that were issued, FMD was imported into Gauteng as people continued to move livestock to the province of Gauteng,” Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Thursday in Cape Town.
The department has ordered over 900 000 doses of vaccines, with the first batch expected to arrive soon.
“All infected properties are placed under quarantine. No movement is allowed into, out of, or through these areas or farms.
“Large areas, where individuals cannot be served with quarantine notices, are declared Disease Management Areas, and the same restrictions apply.
In addition, plans are underway to establish a biosecurity council that will bring together the South African Police Service (SAPS), veterinarians, scientists, the Border Management Authority and captains of industry to better respond to future outbreaks and manage the related risks,” Ntshavheni said.
She was addressing the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday, 11 June 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
They’re everywhere you look, trotting on the sidewalk, bounding on the trail, pacing on the treadmill.
Runners.
On any given day, millions of people around the world are hitting the pavement, logging miles, and pushing for personal bests. With a low barrier to entry and near universal access, it’s easy enough to get started, but for most people, making gains is not so straightforward.
Samsung Health, together with powerful Galaxy Wearables like Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Ring offer runners of all levels an incredible set of tools to monitor progress and improve — including automatically tracking runs, keeping tabs on heart rate zones1, and evaluating their daily Energy Score2.
Even so, one of the most overlooked aspects of improving performance has nothing to do with racking up steps: getting quality rest. Your downtime provides an important window into your overall health and directly impacts running performance. That’s why Samsung Health also features extensive sleep analysis1 to help runners understand their sleep patterns3 and build better habits. All data and insights captured on compatible Galaxy Wearables are integrated into the Samsung Health app which generates detailed reports across a range of health metrics.
Throughout the summer, Samsung will be bringing its expertise to runners across New York City through partnerships with some of the city’s largest run clubs, collaborations with fitness creators, and race activations. The collaborations will emphasize the importance of rest and recovery, and how Samsung Health and Galaxy Wearables can play a vital role in the training and recovery process.
Samsung is working with two of New York City’s largest run clubs — Almost Friday Run Club and Midnight Runners New York — empowering select participants with Galaxy technology to help them reach their goals and better understand the importance of rest as part of their training.
Samsung will also be activating at select New York City races in partnership with NYCRuns, providing interactive rest stations for racers. The experience will include a hydration station and stretching area, as well as opportunities to learn about how runners can use Samsung Health’s Energy Score and sleep data insights to improve their running performance.
The first sponsored run takes place July 13, 2025 at the NYCRuns Queens Ice Cream Social 5K. The event is open to the public, and those interested can register here.
Stay tuned throughout the summer for more updates!
To learn more about Samsung Health, Galaxy Watch, Galaxy Ring or how Samsung can help power your runs and catch some Z’s visit Samsung.com.
New research finds firefighters have UK’s toughest job, with paramedics, farmers and builders also included among most gruelling roles in the country
90% of Brits say tech that can withstand tough jobs is vital in demanding roles, with extreme environments (63%) and hazardous conditions (64%) cited as key challenges
Our Yorkshire Farm Shepherdess, Amanda Owen partners with Samsung to demonstrate real-world resilience testing of the new Rugged device range, from mucking out to herding sheep
The new Samsung XCover7 Pro and Tab Active5 Pro Enterprise Edition deliver military-grade durability[1], water-resistance[2], long battery life[3], and push-to-talk functionality[4] – purpose built for frontline and field-based professionals
James Speakman/PA Media Assignments
New research has revealed the UK’s toughest jobs – with firefighters topping the list.
The poll of 2,000 Brits found paramedics, farmers and armed forces personnel were also cited as those who deserve recognition for doing of the most physically and mentally draining work.
The study was commissioned by Samsung to launch their latest Rugged device range which is designed to thrive in harsh work environments and was judged according to criteria including physical demands, danger and risk, and work environment.
The findings, which also identified police officers (34%), fishermen (16%) and construction workers (15%) among the UK’s toughest workers, underscored a growing demand among workers and employers for tech that can withstand harsh, high-risk environments.
The research also revealed that nine in 10 Brits value devices capable of withstanding harsh conditions, citing reducing physical strain through equipment (54%), alerting workers to risks more quickly (53%) and automating repetitive tasks (45%) as ways to ease pressure.
To emphasise the importance of durable technology in tough jobs, Samsung enlisted farmer and shepherdess Amanda Owen to give an insight into the realities of working life on a farm.
From mucking out and herding animals, to operating machinery and navigating unpredictable weather, Amanda showcases how physically demanding farm life can be, highlighting the need for technology that can keep up with resilient workers themselves.
Amanda Owen says: “Farming isn’t for the faint hearted – we’re up before dawn, battling the elements, and it takes real resilience out here. In this environment, our tech needs to be just as tough—anything that can’t handle water or a drop is a liability. We need something rugged on the outside and smart on the inside, that can keep up with the job.”
According to respondents, 63% of people believe for a job to be ‘tough’ it must take place in an extreme environment. 58% of jobs which can be considered challenging also involve working with dangerous equipment, with a further 55% fearing dangerous people.
Two thirds (62%) of Brits agree that tough jobs need more recognition in the UK saying that they play a vital role in keeping the country running (64%), often work long hours with little rest (46%) and face hazardous conditions daily (62%) as to why they deserve more recognition.
The Samsung Rugged range, which includes the Galaxy XCover7 Pro and Tab Active5 Pro, is designed to take on tough, rugged environments, offering water and dust resistance[5], drop protection[6], long battery life as well as replaceable batteries, and enhanced touch sensitivity for use in the rain[7] or with gloves[8]
Annika Bizon, Mobile Experience VP of Product & Marketing, Samsung UK&I says:“Tough roles demand robust support. Whether it’s maintaining connectivity in the field or ensuring mission-critical tasks aren’t interrupted, having the right tech in place is essential. The Rugged range has been engineered specifically for these environments — combining military-grade durability with the business tools workforces require.”
Almost half (46%) of Brits admitted they don’t feel like they have the resilience to take on a physically demanding role, a figure that dropped to 40% among men.
In contrast, 52% of women believe they have what it takes to handle roles that might require higher levels of emotional and mental capacity.
When it comes to younger generations, 61% of those aged 18–24 have considered taking up physically tough roles when exploring career options. This compares with just 11% of Boomers, who prefer to steer clear of jobs they’d deem tough.
Two in five (38%) agree there’s a misconception that physically demanding jobs don’t require robust technology.
From construction sites and emergency callouts to remote locations and extreme weather – where phone failure simply isn’t an option – Samsung’s Rugged range is built to go the distance with those who keep the country running.
Engineered for endurance, the devices offer military-grade protection, taking up to a 1.8 metre drop with the cover on[9], ready for whatever the job throws at them.
The programmable hot key allows you to set up shortcuts for frequently used apps, you can transform your device into a walkie-talkie, torch, scanner, payment terminal or whatever you need it to be.
But it’s not just the hardware that’s built for resilience. With the ability to set up Knox Suite[10] swiftly with QuickStart Go, teams can be up and running with business-ready devices in no time, while Samsung Knox security keeps data protected against malware or threats.
And with 3-year warranty, up to 8- years of security maintenance releases and eight generations of operating system updates[11], plus next-business-day doorstep exchange[12], Rugged users get the reassurance and support they need, long after deployment.
The Samsung Rugged devices are available to purchase now. For more information, visit https://www.samsung.com/uk/business/mobile/rugged/.
[1]Drop test results meet MIL STD 810H standard and vary depending on particular Rugged device. Test scope: Altitude, Humidity, Immersion, Salt Fog, Dust, Vibration, Drop, and more. Tab Active5 Pro can take 1.8M with case on and other devices in the range can take 1.5M drop. Internally tested with Liquid Ethanol, Ethanol Cotton, Clorox (Chlorine bleach), Medilox HCIO.
[2]The device can be used in wet environments, but not fully submerged under water. Underwater touch is not available
[3]Additional battery sold separately. In the case of extra replaceable batteries, only Samsung-certified products are compatible for use. Need to turn on “No Battery Mode” and use a dedicated USB Type C power source accessory (9V/2.3A ↑, PD2.0↑). Cradle and power source accessory sold separately. No Battery Mode limits device’s CPU/GPU performance and reduces maximum volume, and display brightness, when enabled. No Battery Mode available on Tab Active devices only
[4]Additional licenses may be required. Requires Samsung D2D Service
[5]Resistant to dust and up to 1.5 metres of fresh water for up to 30 minutes (IP68). Rinse residue/dry after wet. Not advised for beach or pool use.
[6]Tab Active5 can take 2.8M and other devices in the range can take 1.5M drop
[7]The device can be used in wet environments, but not fully submerged under water. Underwater touch is not available.
[8]Touch sensitivity increases responsiveness for leather gloves thinner than 2mm or less in thickness, based on internal laboratory test results. Touch-responsiveness may vary depending on the material and thickness of gloves as well as other environmental conditions.
[9]Drop test results meet MIL STD 810H standard and vary depending on particular Rugged device. Test scope: Altitude, Humidity, Immersion, Salt Fog, Dust, Vibration, Drop, and more. Tab Active5 Pro can take 1.8M with case on and other devices in the range can take 1.5M drop.
[10]One-year free Knox Suite Enterprise Plan included with Enterprise Edition devices with purchase of subsequent years.
[11] 8 years from first global launch for Tab Active5 Series and 7 Years from first global launch for XCover7 Series.
[12]Doorstep Exchange with Samsung gold stock. Terms apply.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, June 12 — China has fully established a voluntary blood donation system and introduced a range of measures to ensure a safe blood supply, according to the National Health Commission (NHC).
China has expanded its blood screening programs and improved testing technologies, effectively blocking the transmission of major infectious diseases through transfusion, Gao Guangming, an official with the NHC, said at a press conference on Thursday.
China’s overall blood safety level now ranks among the highest in the world, Gao said.
The country has strengthened its nationwide emergency response system for blood supply, enabling targeted cross-regional allocation to ensure adequate blood supply in key areas and during critical periods, he said.
To boost public awareness of voluntary blood donation, the NHC partnered with China Railway Group to display promotional videos and posters on 260,000 screens across more than 3,000 railway stations and over 4,200 high-speed trains nationwide, Gao said.
He added that Party and government organs, universities and colleges, enterprises and public institutions are encouraged to lead by example in blood donations, and help foster a culture of giving in society.
The country has a blood donation rate of 11.4 per 1,000 people, the NHC revealed at the press conference.
Large cuts to government-funded research and development can endanger American innovation – and the vital productivity gains it supports.
The Trump administration has already canceled at least US$1.8 billion in research grants previously awarded by the National Institutes of Health, which supports biomedical and health research. Its preliminary budget request for the 2026 fiscal year proposed slashing federal funding for scientific and health research, cutting the NIH budget by another $18 billion – nearly a 40% reduction. The National Science Foundation, which funds much of the basic scientific research conducted at universities, would see its budget slashed by $5 billion – cutting it by more than half.
Research and development spending might strike you as an unnecessary expense for the government. Perhaps you see it as something universities or private companies should instead be paying for themselves. But as research I’ve conducted shows, if the government were to abandon its long-standing practice of investing in R&D, it would significantly slow the pace of U.S. innovation and economic growth.
I’m an economist at Texas A&M University. For the past five years, I’ve been studying the long-term economic benefits of government-funded R&D with Karel Mertens, an economist at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. We have found that government R&D spending on everything from the Apollo space program to the Human Genome Project has fueled innovation. We also found that federal R&D spending has played a significant role in boosting U.S. productivity and spurring economic growth over the past 75 years.
Measuring productivity
Productivity rises when economic growth is caused by technological progress and know-how, rather than workers putting in more hours or employers using more equipment and machinery. Economists believe that higher productivity fuels economic growth and raises living standards over the long run.
U.S. productivity growth fell by half, from an average of roughly 2% a year in the 1950s and 1960s to about 1%, starting in the early 1970s. This deceleration eerily coincides with a big decline in government R&D spending, which peaked at over 1.8% of gross domestic product in the mid-1960s. Government R&D spending has declined since then and has fallen by half – to below 0.9% of GDP – today.
Government R&D spending encompasses all innovative work the government directly pays for, regardless of who does it. Private companies and universities conduct a lot of this work, as do national labs and federal agencies, like the NIH.
Correlation is not causation. But in a Dallas Fed working paper released in November 2024, my co-author and I identified a strong causal link between government R&D spending and U.S. productivity growth. We estimated that government R&D spending consistently accounted for more than 20% of all U.S. productivity growth since World War II. And a decline in that spending after the 1960s can account for nearly one-fourth of the deceleration in productivity since then.
These significant productivity gains came from R&D investments by federal agencies that are not focused on national defense. Examples include the NIH’s support for biomedical research, the Department of Energy’s funding for physics and energy research, and NASA’s spending on aeronautics and space exploration technologies.
Not all productivity growth is driven by government R&D. Economists think public investment in physical infrastructure, such as construction of the interstate highway system starting in the Eisenhower administration, also spurred productivity growth. And U.S. productivity growth briefly accelerated during the information technology boom of the late 1990s and early 2000s, which we do not attribute to government R&D investment.
More R than D
We have found that government R&D investment is more effective than private R&D spending at driving productivity, likely because the private sector tends to spend much more on the development side of R&D, while the public sector tends to emphasize research.
Like the private sector, the Department of Defense spends much more on development – of weapons and military technology – than on fundamental research. We found only inconclusive evidence on the returns on military R&D.
R&D work funded by the Defense Department also tends to initially be classified and kept secret from geopolitical rivals, such as the Manhattan Project that developed the atomic bomb. As a result, gains for the whole economy from that source of innovation could take longer to materialize than the 15-year time frame we have studied.
The high returns on nondefense R&D that we estimated suggest that Congress has historically underinvested in these areas. For instance, the productivity gains from nondefense R&D are at least 10 times higher than those from government investments in highways, bridges and other kinds of physical infrastructure. The government has also invested far more in physical infrastructure than R&D over the past 75 years. Increasing R&D investment would take advantage of these higher returns and gradually reduce them because of diminishing marginal returns to additional investment.
So why is the government not spending substantially more on R&D?
One argument sometimes heard against federal R&D spending is that it displaces, or “crowds out,” R&D spending the private sector would otherwise undertake. For instance, the administration’s budget request proposed reducing or eliminating NASA space technology programs it deemed “better suited to private sector research and development.”
But my colleague and I have found that government spending on R&D complements private investment. An additional dollar of government nondefense R&D spending causes the private sector to increase its R&D spending by an additional 20 cents. So we expect budget cuts to the NIH, NSF and NASA to actually reduce R&D spending by companies, which is also bad for economic growth.
Federal R&D spending is also often on the chopping block whenever Congress focuses on deficit reduction. In part, that likely reflects the gradual nature of the economic benefits from government-funded R&D, which are at odds with the country’s four-year electoral cycles.
Similarly, the benefits from NIH spending on biomedical research are usually less visible than government spending on Medicare or Medicaid, which are health insurance programs for those 65 years and older and those with low incomes or disabilities. But Medicare or Medicaid help Americans buy prescription drugs and medical devices that were invented with the help of NIH-funded research.
Even if the benefits of government R&D are slow to materialize or are harder to see than those from other government programs, our research suggests that the U.S. economy will be less innovative and productive – and Americans will be worse off for it – if Congress agrees to deep cuts to science and research funding.
The views expressed in the Dallas Fed working paper are the views of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas or the Federal Reserve System.
Andrew Fieldhouse does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
It is true that college students’ mental health has deteriorated in many regards during the past two decades.
The Healthy Minds Study, which gathers national survey data on tens of thousands of students annually, has found that the percentage who considered suicide in the prior year rose from 6% in 2007 to 13% in 2024. The percentage of students who made a specific suicide plan tripled during that period.
While some news reports portray the current state of student mental health as an unprecedented crisis, the full picture is more nuanced. As a psychologist who has been researching college student mental health for more than 20 years, as summarized in my recent book, “College Student Mental Health and Wellness: Coping on Campus,” I believe recent data suggests a turning of the tide.
The 2024 Health Minds Study found a slight decrease over the previous two years in the percentage of students contemplating suicide.
Data also reveals a similar decline in the percentage of students dealing with severe anxiety from 2022 to 2024.
The study marks the first time since data collection began on suicide or severe anxiety that there has been a two-year decrease in either area.
Reason for concern
The demand for psychological services at college and university counseling centers has outpaced growth in undergraduate enrollment. Peter Dazeley/Getty Images
To be clear, there is reason for concern about the psychological well-being of college students.
Healthy Minds Study researchers found that in 2007, 9% of college students were taking psychotropic medication such as antidepressants. In 2024, that number had grown to 26%.
A 2024 national survey conducted by the American College Health Association found that more than a third of students received mental health care in the previous year.
The demand for psychological services at college and university counseling centers has outpaced growth in undergraduate enrollment more than fourfold.
Findings from another national dataset gathered by the Center for Collegiate Mental Health, an international network of more than 800 college and university counseling centers, indicate that from 2010 to 2024, depression symptoms increased 18% among students receiving psychological services, general anxiety symptoms rose more than 25%, and social anxiety symptoms climbed more than 30%.
In addition, students’ family-related distress steadily increased during the past decade.
The sky is not falling
Despite disturbing trends in student mental health, recent data suggests that fewer students are contemplating suicide and dealing with anxiety. Ariel Skelley/Getty Images
Despite these challenges, there is good news regarding decreases in the share of students considering self-injury and reporting depression symptoms.
Data from the Healthy Minds Study reveals that the percentage of students considering self-injury has not increased the past two years, after more than doubling from 14% in 2007 to 29% in 2022.
A similar pattern can be found in Center for Collegiate Mental Health data about depression. Depression symptoms have decreased each of the past two academic years.
The network has been collecting depression data since 2010, and never before have scores dropped in consecutive years.
The Center for Collegiate Mental Health data also indicates that students’ academic distress peaked following the onset of COVID-19 and declined each of the past three years, returning to pre-pandemic levels. Students’ frustration has also shown a gradual, 7% decline from 2010 to 2024.
Furthermore, for the first time since 2012, there has been a two-year uptick in college students who are flourishing, according to data from the Healthy Minds Study. Other researchers have found a similar recent trend, accompanied by a decrease in student loneliness.
More good news, based on data, about what students put in their bodies: Symptoms related to eating disorders have not increased in any of the past four years, according to the Center for Collegiate Mental Health. Data from the network indicates that current alcohol use is at its lowest level since 2010, declining 29% over that period.
Binge drinking has also decreased 18% since 2012, according to the Healthy Minds Study.
We need data, not dread
Mental health professionals need accurate data to support the psychological well-being of college students. SeventyFour/Getty Images
Valid data can help in discerning the truth about college student mental health.
Data that captures national trends in college student psychological well-being is needed to support mental health professionals. For example, as data reveals emerging trends, such as an increase in college students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, training can be provided to clinicians in treating students with these concerns.
Campus mental health professionals and administrators can also use data to advocate for resources they need to support students. For instance, our research has found that students of color are more likely to seek psychological help when there are therapists on staff from the same ethnic or racial background. This data can inform hiring practices at college and university counseling centers.
Finally, continuous data collection can help determine how college student mental health is impacted by specific events, such as pandemics, campus shootings and laws that eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, social anxiety decreased, while general anxiety spiked.
These events may not affect students equally.
International students, a group that already experiences heightened suicidal thoughts, may be particularly impacted by recent news of visa cancellations and deportations.
Jeffrey A. Hayes has received a research grant from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to study college student suicide.
When combined with factors such as easy access to tobacco products or living with someone who uses them, the risk of adolescent use more than doubles, which sets the stage for harmful physical and mental health effects.
Parental awareness and adolescents’ motivations to use tobacco
As a mother of a teenager, one of us, Adriana, has experienced this firsthand. For months, my 14-year-old son was vaping in his room, and I had no idea. When he finally told me that he turned to vaping whenever he felt upset, it was like coming face-to-face with the very issues we study.
Since 2022, our team has been examining the factors associated with tobacco use among more than 8,000 adolescents ages 12 to 17 from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health, or PATH, study – the largest multiyear, nationally representative study of tobacco use in the U.S. We looked at the use of cigarettes, electronic products, traditional or filtered cigars, cigarillos, pipes, hookahs, smokeless or dissolvable tobacco and more.
We found that emotional distress, along with the belief that tobacco products help manage negative emotions, are significant factors driving adolescent tobacco use.
This highlights the complexity of the issue – that even when teens recognize the health risks of tobacco use, vaping and other forms of tobacco use may function as a coping strategy, albeit an unhealthy one, for the wide range of emotional challenges that come with adolescence.
Teachers and school administrators are struggling to control vaping among students because many devices are small, odorless and easy to conceal. Peter Dazeley/Photodisc via Getty Images
The availability of flavored options further increases the appeal of these products and can contribute to the progression from occasional to regular use and ultimately the development of nicotine dependence.
What makes vaping especially difficult to manage is its stealth. Unlike combustible products, many vaping devices are small, odorless and very easy to conceal. As a result, parents, teachers and school administrators are struggling to detect and curb vaping among teens.
Strategies for addressing why teens use tobacco
In our view, policy efforts that focus primarily on raising awareness about health risks, restricting access to tobacco products or reducing the appeal of e-cigarettes or vapes will reach only a subset of youth who use them, and not those who may use for emotional reasons.
And while such bans may limit access to tobacco products in formal settings, the availability of these products from friends and social networks, online platforms or unregulated markets will not likely be reduced solely through that type of health messaging.
As our findings show, these efforts may miss a stronger, even more enduring driver of youth tobacco use: the pervasive belief that tobacco use helps manage stress, anger and other difficult emotions. Our research highlights that emotional distress and the perception that tobacco use can help them cope with stress are central to why many adolescents begin and continue using these products, even when they are aware of the health risks.
In this context, simply limiting access to tobacco products or repeating well-known health warnings will do little to address the underlying emotional motivations to use.
We believe that to make meaningful progress, policy and prevention interventions will need to address the underlying motives for use, and not just focus on the harmful health effects of nicotine or means of access.
This includes integrating emotional and behavioral health support into tobacco prevention strategies and expanding school-based and community mental health services. And while public health education campaigns such as The Real Cost have been successful in reducing the number of adolescents who begin using e-cigarettes, our findings suggest more emphasis on the emotional drivers of tobacco use is warranted.
Adriana Espinosa receives funding from the National Institutes of Health (NCI and NIMHD).
Lesia M. Ruglass receives funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIGMS, NIDA, NCI, and NIMHD).
Source: The Conversation – USA – By Ian McDonough, Associate Professor of Psychology, Binghamton University, State University of New York
Older adults generally have a good sense of their own financial abilities – unless they have dementia. shapecharge/E+ via Getty Images
Older adults diagnosed with dementia lose their ability to assess how well they manage their finances, according to a recent study I co-authored in The Gerontologist. In comparison, people of the same age who don’t have dementia are aware of their financial abilities – and this awareness improves over time.
For our study, we used data from over 2,000 adults in the U.S. age 65 and older, collected during a long-term study on aging.
We focused on how participants’ financial skills changed over time. The study began in 1998 and is still running, but we probed data collected between 1998 and 2009.
Participants were assessed at one year, two years, five years and 10 years for their ability to carry out everyday tasks, including ones that required handling money. For example, they had to calculate the cost of a gym membership and a store discount rate, fill out part of a tax return and assess the cost of medical services. They also rated how well they thought they could do everyday financial tasks. Initially, none of the participants were diagnosed with dementia, but over the course of the decade, 87 participants, or 3.1%, received a dementia diagnosis.
We found that even though participants’ performance on financial tasks declined as they aged, older adults who did not have dementia and older adults who had mild cognitive impairment were appropriately aware of their financial abilities. What’s more, that awareness increased over time. However, participants who were diagnosed with dementia during the study and experienced severe cognitive decline often misjudged how well they performed financial tasks.
Financial scams targeting older adults are on the rise.
The lack of insight into one’s cognitive abilities is called anosognosia. This study reveals a new type called financial anosognosia.
Few tools are available that can support families in helping cognitively impaired adults manage their finances. Our research suggests that there is a critical window of time after people begin to experience cognitive decline during which they are still aware of their financial abilities. We believe that this is when people can take action to secure their finances and develop systems to protect themselves from fraud.
What still isn’t known
Close friends or family members are often tempted to take away the financial autonomy of an older adult who is mismanaging their finances. However, that may not be the best solution, particularly for people who feel that handling their finances is a core part of their identity. More research is needed to identify how best to balance personal autonomy and the need to protect a person’s finances.
What’s next
This study used paper-and-pencil tasks to assess financial performance. But increasingly, many older adults are using online banking.
E-banking simplifies many calculations, which may be helpful for older adults with declining cognition. However, e-banking can also make finances more of a black box, which may decrease a person’s awareness of their financial abilities. Furthermore, e-banking is constantly advancing, putting older adults at a disadvantage because they are more likely to be less cognitively flexible and to learn more slowly.
We hope to explore whether older adults with and without cognitive decline have similar awareness of their ability to appropriately manage their finances online and identify potential financial scams.
The Research Brief is a short take on interesting academic work.
Ian McDonough receives funding from The National Institutes of Health.
Reducing diagnoses to address antibiotics resistance.
Thousands of cases of the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhoea could be prevented through a new vaccine programme.
The Scottish Government is funding the programme, which will begin in August, to address increasing health inequalities and growing resistance to antibiotics treatment.
Those eligible include gay and bisexual men at highest risk of infection, those involved in selling or exchanging sex regardless of gender and those who sexual health clinic professionals assess as being at a similar risk level.
Gonorrhoea can cause significant pain and discomfort and in rare cases, life-threatening sepsis. The number of cases has been rising steadily in recent years and it is the second most common bacterial STI in Scotland. Latest figures show there were 5,999 diagnoses in 2023, a 59% increase on pre-pandemic.
Speaking at the Public Health Scotland Scottish Vaccination and Immunisation Conference in Edinburgh, Public Health Minister Jenni Minto said:
“This action is urgent and timely since the number of diagnoses has been high and the disease is becoming increasingly difficult to treat with antibiotics.
“The science tells us that this vaccine will potentially protect thousands of people and prevent the spread of infection.
“Anything which stops people from contracting gonorrhoea in the first place can have huge benefits, including ensuring our health system remains resilient by reducing the amount of treatment needed.”
Dr Sam Ghebrehewet, Head of the Vaccination and Immunisation Division at PHS, said:
“With gonorrhoea diagnoses having increased in recent years, the offer of the 4CmenB vaccine to those at highest risk of exposure is a welcome new intervention. This vaccination programme is expected to help control and prevent the spread of gonorrhoea.
“Public Health Scotland is working with the Scottish Government and colleagues across NHS Boards to finalise plans for the roll out of this targeted vaccination offering to those at increased risk of gonorrhoea from August 2025.”
Background
Ministers accepted the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation’s advice on the programme, which will be delivered by the Scottish Vaccination and Immunisation Programme led by Public Health Scotland.
The £280,000 funding is intended to cover first and second doses of 4CMenB vaccine.
The vaccine is 30-40% effective and will be offered in the clinics alongside those for HPV, hepatitis and the routine mpox vaccination programme.
AI tools gather information about you from many types of devices, including smartphones.Prostock-Studio/Getty Images
Like it or not, artificial intelligence has become part of daily life. Many devices – including electric razors and toothbrushes – have become “AI-powered,” using machine learning algorithms to track how a person uses the device, how the device is working in real time, and provide feedback. From asking questions to an AI assistant like ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot to monitoring a daily fitness routine with a smartwatch, many people use an AI system or tool every day.
While AI tools and technologies can make life easier, they also raise important questions about data privacy. These systems often collect large amounts of data, sometimes without people even realizing their data is being collected. The information can then be used to identify personal habits and preferences, and even predict future behaviors by drawing inferences from the aggregated data.
As an assistant professor of cybersecurity at West Virginia University, I study how emerging technologies and various types of AI systems manage personal data and how we can build more secure, privacy-preserving systems for the future.
Generative AI software uses large amounts of training data to create new content such as text or images. Predictive AI uses data to forecast outcomes based on past behavior, such as how likely you are to hit your daily step goal, or what movies you may want to watch. Both types can be used to gather information about you.
How AI tools collect data
Generative AI assistants such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini collect all the information users type into a chat box. Every question, response and prompt that users enter is recorded, stored and analyzed to improve the AI model.
OpenAI’s privacy policy informs users that “we may use content you provide us to improve our Services, for example to train the models that power ChatGPT.” Even though OpenAI allows you to opt out of content use for model training, it still collects and retains your personal data. Although some companies promise that they anonymize this data, meaning they store it without naming the person who provided it, there is always a risk of data being reidentified.
ChatGPT stores and analyzes everything you type into a prompt screen. Screenshot by Christopher Ramezan, CC BY-ND
Predictive AI
Beyond generative AI assistants, social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and TikTok continuously gather data on their users to train predictive AI models. Every post, photo, video, like, share and comment, including the amount of time people spend looking at each of these, is collected as data points that are used to build digital data profiles for each person who uses the service.
The profiles can be used to refine the social media platform’s AI recommender systems. They can also be sold to data brokers, who sell a person’s data to other companies to, for instance, help develop targeted advertisements that align with that person’s interests.
Many social media companies also track users across websites and applications by putting cookies and embedded tracking pixels on their computers. Cookies are small files that store information about who you are and what you clicked on while browsing a website.
One of the most common uses of cookies is in digital shopping carts: When you place an item in your cart, leave the website and return later, the item will still be in your cart because the cookie stored that information. Tracking pixels are invisible images or snippets of code embedded in websites that notify companies of your activity when you visit their page. This helps them track your behavior across the internet.
This is why users often see or hear advertisements that are related to their browsing and shopping habits on many of the unrelated websites they browse, and even when they are using different devices, including computers, phones and smart speakers. One study found that some websites can store over 300 tracking cookies on your computer or mobile phone.
Here’s how websites you browse can track you using cookies or tracking pixels.
Data privacy controls – and limitations
Like generative AI platforms, social media platforms offer privacy settings and opt-outs, but these give people limited control over how their personal data is aggregated and monetized. As media theorist Douglas Rushkoff argued in 2011, if the service is free, you are the product.
Many tools that include AI don’t require a person to take any direct action for the tool to collect data about that person. Smart devices such as home speakers, fitness trackers and watches continually gather information through biometric sensors, voice recognition and location tracking. Smart home speakers continually listen for the command to activate or “wake up” the device. As the device is listening for this word, it picks up all the conversations happening around it, even though it does not seem to be active.
Some companies claim that voice data is only stored when the wake word – what you say to wake up the device – is detected. However, people have raised concerns about accidental recordings, especially because these devices are often connected to cloud services, which allow voice data to be stored, synced and shared across multiple devices such as your phone, smart speaker and tablet.
If the company allows, it’s also possible for this data to be accessed by third parties, such as advertisers, data analytics firms or a law enforcement agency with a warrant.
Privacy rollbacks
This potential for third-party access also applies to smartwatches and fitness trackers, which monitor health metrics and user activity patterns. Companies that produce wearable fitness devices are not considered “covered entities” and so are not bound by the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act. This means that they are legally allowed to sell health- and location-related data collected from their users.
Concerns about HIPAA data arose in 2018, when Strava, a fitness company released a global heat map of user’s exercise routes. In doing so, it accidentally revealed sensitive military locations across the globe through highlighting the exercise routes of military personnel.
Smart speakers can collect information even when they’re sleeping. recep-bg/Getty Images
Such partnerships can expand corporate and government reach into everyday consumer behavior. This one could be used to create detailed personal profiles on Americans by linking their consumer habits with other personal data. This raises concerns about increased surveillance and loss of anonymity. It could allow citizens to be tracked and analyzed across multiple aspects of their lives without their knowledge or consent.
Some smart device companies are also rolling back privacy protections instead of strengthening them. Amazon recently announced that starting on March 28, 2025, all voice recordings from Amazon Echo devices would be sent to Amazon’s cloud by default, and users will no longer have the option to turn this function off. This is different from previous settings, which allowed users to limit private data collection.
Changes like these raise concerns about how much control consumers have over their own data when using smart devices. Many privacy experts consider cloud storage of voice recordings a form of data collection, especially when used to improve algorithms or build user profiles, which has implications for data privacy laws designed to protect online privacy.
Implications for data privacy
All of this brings up serious privacy concerns for people and governments on how AI tools collect, store, use and transmit data. The biggest concern is transparency. People don’t know what data is being collected, how the data is being used, and who has access to that data.
Companies tend to use complicated privacy policies filled with technical jargon to make it difficult for people to understand the terms of a service that they agree to. People also tend not to read terms of service documents. One study found that people averaged 73 seconds reading a terms of service document that had an average read time of 29-32 minutes.
Data collected by AI tools may initially reside with a company that you trust, but can easily be sold and given to a company that you don’t trust.
AI tools, the companies in charge of them and the companies that have access to the data they collect can also be subject to cyberattacks and data breaches that can reveal sensitive personal information. These attacks can by carried out by cybercriminals who are in it for the money, or by so-called advanced persistent threats, which are typically nation/state- sponsored attackers who gain access to networks and systems and remain there undetected, collecting information and personal data to eventually cause disruption or harm.
While laws and regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation in the European Union and the California Consumer Privacy Act aim to safeguard user data, AI development and use have often outpaced the legislative process. The laws are still catching up on AI and data privacy. For now, you should assume any AI-powered device or platform is collecting data on your inputs, behaviors and patterns.
Using AI tools
Although AI tools collect people’s data, and the way this accumulation of data affects people’s data privacy is concerning, the tools can also be useful. AI-powered applications can streamline workflows, automate repetitive tasks and provide valuable insights.
But it’s crucial to approach these tools with awareness and caution.
When using a generative AI platform that gives you answers to questions you type in a prompt, don’t include any personally identifiable information, including names, birth dates, Social Security numbers or home addresses. At the workplace, don’t include trade secrets or classified information. In general, don’t put anything into a prompt that you wouldn’t feel comfortable revealing to the public or seeing on a billboard. Remember, once you hit enter on the prompt, you’ve lost control of that information.
Remember that devices which are turned on are always listening – even if they’re asleep. If you use smart home or embedded devices, turn them off when you need to have a private conversation. A device that’s asleep looks inactive, but it is still powered on and listening for a wake word or signal. Unplugging a device or removing its batteries is a good way of making sure the device is truly off.
Finally, be aware of the terms of service and data collection policies of the devices and platforms that you are using. You might be surprised by what you’ve already agreed to.
This article is part of a series on data privacy that explores who collects your data, what and how they collect, who sells and buys your data, what they all do with it, and what you can do about it.
The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has warned the public to remain cautious when dealing with service providers claiming they are licensed, especially as cannabis dispensaries continue to expand.
“SAHPRA has learned that individuals and companies are operating unethically by presenting falsified SAHPRA licences to gain public trust and conduct business.
“SAHPRA stresses that the use of fake licences is not only unlawful but also poses serious risks to public health and safety,” it said in a statement.
According to the local drug regulatory authority, cannabis dispensaries are rapidly increasing in shopping malls, openly displaying copies of SAHPRA licences that were issued to authorise cannabis cultivation and the export of cannabis flowers.
SAHPRA said these licences do not authorise cannabis dispensaries, which is a concerning issue.
SAHPRA CEO, Dr Boitumelo Semete-Makokotlela, has strongly condemned these unethical practices.
“It is highly unethical and illegal for any individual or company to claim SAHPRA authorisation through forged documentation.
“We take this matter seriously, and we will work with law enforcement agencies to ensure that offenders are dealt with swiftly and decisively. The public must be protected from such deceptive behaviour,” she said.
The public is urged to verify the legitimacy of any SAHPRA-issued licence. They can do so by contacting SAHPRA directly through official channels or by checking the website, https://www.sahpra.org.za/, under “Databases and Registers”.
SAHPRA is in the process of sourcing a system that uses barcoding to authenticate these certificates. It will launch a public outreach campaign to raise awareness on how to verify the authenticity of licences.
“Your vigilance can help prevent harm and hold those responsible to account,” SAHPRA said, adding that it remains committed to safeguarding public health by regulating health products with integrity, transparency and accountability.
The public is encouraged to engage only with properly licensed and verified providers.
If you believe a provider is using a fraudulent SAHPRA licence, please report it immediately to SAHPRA at 0800 204 307 or visit the website at https://bit.ly/3nrku5t. – SAnews.gov.za
Funding for micro-credentials and qualifications WDCs need to be aware that micro-credentials and qualifications must meet the Tertiary Education Commission’s (TEC’s) funding conditions to be eligible for funded delivery by tertiary education organisations (TEOs). Funding conditions include requirements relating to the eligibility of programmes and micro-credentials. For information on funding conditions, see funding conditions for the relevant year. Why this matters If TEC funding conditions are not met, the cost of delivery will need to be covered by employers or learners. We encourage WDCs to engage with the TEC early in the development process, if they intend for a micro-credential or qualification to be delivered by a TEO using public funding. Funding is only available where micro-credentials and qualifications meet the base and fund-specific funding conditions. The two main funds used by TEOs delivering WDC-developed micro-credentials and qualifications are:
Delivery at Levels 1 and 2 on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (DQ1-2) Delivery at Levels 3 to 7 (non-degree) on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework and all industry training (DQ3-7).
What is excluded from funding? Two exclusions may mean a WDC-developed micro-credential, or qualification is ineligible for TEC funding:
Health and safety or regulatory compliance learning Post-entry health-related professional qualifications or micro-credentials.
Health and safety or regulatory compliance learning Under DQ1-2 and DQ3-7 funding, the TEC cannot fund a TEO for a programme or micro-credential where:
we consider on reasonable grounds that a majority of the programme relates to health and safety, or regulatory compliance learning, and that learning would displace the responsibility of employers to provide training necessary to mitigate their health and safety risks – or meet their regulatory compliance obligations.
Note: 51% or more is how we define ‘majority’ for the purposes of assessment. We focus on content that displaces an employer’s legal responsibility, eg, requirements under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 that keep workers and those impacted by business operations safe and well. What is or isn’t considered within the 51% threshold? This content does not contribute to the 51% or more threshold:
health and safety and regulatory compliance content that is embedded in broader occupational or technical skill development content that supports transferable industry wide skills.
This content does contribute the 51% or more threshold:
stand-alone health and safety or regulatory compliance training that exists primarily to meet legal obligations general or theoretical compliance learning not linked to practical skill development site- or employer-specific training (eg, inductions, emergency procedures).
Health-related professional qualifications or micro-credentials TEC funding can only be used for post-entry health-related professional qualifications or micro-credentials if they meet specific conditions regarding their academic or research nature and clinical components. Programmes, micro-credentials, and/or their component courses are eligible for funding if they:
lead to the award of a post-entry health-related professional qualification or micro-credential, and are of an academic or research nature and have a clinical component of 30% or less.
Programmes, micro-credentials, and/or their component courses are not eligible for funding if they:
lead to the award of a post-entry health-related professional qualification or micro-credential, and have a clinical component of more than 30%, and either
require clinical education or training, or have an emphasis on specialist clinical professional skills.
Conditions for delivery at Levels 1 and 2 on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF) There are some additional requirements to be aware of for delivery at Levels 1 and 2 on the NZQCF, funded through DQ1-2:
A micro-credential must be at least 20 credits in size. Programmes and micro-credentials must include embedded literacy and numeracy (except for programmes in English language or te reo Māori).
Note: These requirements apply to provision funded through DQ1-2, which supports provider-based delivery. If a Level 1 or 2 programme or micro-credential is delivered in a work-based setting (ie, the learner is employed and training occurs in the workplace), it is instead funded through the DQ3-7 fund. WDCs should take care to align the intended delivery mode with the appropriate fund when developing qualifications and micro-credentials at Levels 1 and 2. As stated above, restrictions on health and safety and regulatory compliance apply under both DQ1-2 and DQ3-7 across work-based and provider-based modes of delivery. General guidance for WDCs
Engage early: Contact TEC if you intend for a qualification or micro-credential to be eligible for funding. Be aware of funding conditions: Be aware of the conditions that are imposed on the fund that a qualification or micro-credential would be funded under. Be mindful of thresholds: TEC uses a 51% rule to assess whether health and safety or regulatory compliance content is the dominant purpose of a credential, therefore making it ineligible for funding.
BOSTON and PHILADELPHIA, June 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fiduciary Services Group (FSG), a forward-thinking retirement services firm, has selected Midaxo, a leading mergers and acquisitions (M&A) software platform, to power the company’s shift toward a scalable, programmatic M&A strategy.
“Transitioning from ad-hoc M&A activity to a structured repeatable acquisition program is essential to FSG’s growth strategy,” said Christian Fulmino, Head of Corporate Development and M&A at FSG. “Midaxo’s purpose-built M&A platform will help us create a faster, higher-quality, and more efficient M&A program by improving the organization and structure of our diligence process, increasing the repeatability of our activities, and enhancing visibility through robust analytics and reporting.”
FSG’s adoption of Midaxo underscores its commitment to utilizing technology to drive sustainable growth.
“We are excited to partner with FSG as they scale their M&A program,” said Jude McColgan, CEO of Midaxo. “FSG recognized that Midaxo’s integrated platform—offering best-practice frameworks, reusable diligence workflows, and real-time process insights—can help unlock the inorganic growth they are targeting.”
About Fiduciary Services Group Fiduciary Services Group Family of Companies (FSG) is a leader in enhancing all aspects of retirement services. With a comprehensive focus on recordkeeping services, compliance, government reporting, actuarial services, trust and custody solutions, and investment advisory services, FSG is committed to delivering innovative and reliable support to its clients. As the parent company of PCS Retirement, Advisor Trust, Aspire, ABGRM, DWC, and others, FSG champions a collaborative approach to empowering organizations, advisors, and participants in achieving their retirement goals.
For further information, please contact fsg-marketing@fsgretire.com.
About Midaxo Midaxo provides the most widely used work management solution for corporate development. Digitally transforming the transaction process, Midaxo Cloud leverages automation, AI, and machine learning to deliver accelerated inorganic growth while decreasing deal risk. The platform can be customized to fit the needs of each company to enable corporate development and M&A leaders to find, evaluate, and deliver inorganic growth with unprecedented speed and accuracy. Users of the M&A capabilities report identifying and managing 5x more targets, reducing diligence time by 50%, and accelerating time to value realization up to 40%. More than 500 Midaxo customers, including Banner Health, Daimler AG, Professional Services Co., and United Site Services, have closed over 5,000 transactions valued in excess of $1 trillion.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Chancellor invests in Britain’s renewal with up to 4 million additional NHS tests and procedures over the next five years
Families across the country will benefit from this investment in the NHS, delivering up to 4 million additional NHS tests and procedures over the next five years.
The £6 billion investment will deliver new scanners, more community diagnostic centre capacity, ambulances, and Urgent Treatment Centres to support emergency care teams, with increased capacity in community care to reduce pressure on hospitals and provide more convenient care for patients.
The additional £6 billion of funding will help deliver the Plan for Change promise that 92% of patients start consultant-led treatment within 18 weeks and is part of the largest ever investment in the Department of Health and Social Care’s capital budgets.
Up to 4 million additional tests, scans and procedures will be delivered across the UK as the Chancellor confirms £6 billion of investment over the next five years in Britain’s health to make working people better off.
It comes after the Chancellor’s Spending Review where she pledged to invest in Britain’s renewal, with the biggest ever investment in the Department of Health and Social Care, where she told the commons “there’s no strong economy without a strong NHS”.
Today (11 June), the Chancellor is confirming this investment in the NHS which will deliver new scanners, more community diagnostic centres – on top of the 170 already delivered across the country – ambulances and Urgent Treatment Centres to support emergency care teams, with increased capacity in community care to reduce pressure on hospitals.
The funding injection will give patients better access to vital diagnostic scans and treatment in more convenient locations, including shopping centres and local high streets, providing faster diagnoses and improved outcomes.
This will help cut hospital waiting lists and deliver the Government’s Plan for Change commitment that 92% of patients should start consultant-led treatment within 18 weeks of referral and follows record investment of £232 billion in the NHS announced at the Spending Review.
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:
Over a decade of underinvestment from the previous government put the NHS on its knees, with people across the country unable to get the care they need. We are investing in Britain’s renewal, and we will turn that around.
Part of our record investment will deliver 4 million tests, scans and procedures, so hard working people can get the health care they and their families need. There is no strong economy without a strong NHS, and we’ll deliver on our Plan for Change to end the hospital backlog, improve living standards and get more money in people’s pockets.
£30 billion will also be invested over the next five years in day-to-day maintenance and repair of the NHS estate, with over £5 billion specifically allocated to address the most critical building repairs, reducing the most serious and critical infrastructure risk in a targeted way. This will begin to address the recommendations of the Darzi review and will turn the tide on the trends of the past 15 years.
Record investment must go hand-in-hand with reform across the health service, to deliver 2% productivity growth each year and unlock £17 billion of savings over the next three years to be reinvested back into the Health Service and support a radical transformation of the Service to be set out in the 10 Year Health Plan.
Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, said:
Since taking office we have been relentless in our drive to cut waiting times for patients, delivering over 3.6 million extra elective care appointments and reducing the overall waiting list by over 200,000.
The £6 billion investment we are announcing today will generate millions more vital diagnostic tests, scans and procedures for patients across the country.
Through our Plan for Change we are delivering the investment and reform needed to put the NHS on the road to recovery.
The government is already putting the latest technology in the hands of patients and staff with a national expansion of the NHS App and a recent £70 million investment in new radiography machines to give cancer patients faster and better treatment.
Reforms to general practice will also slash red tape and bring back the family doctor, allowing GPs to spend more time treating patients.
This settlement also supports the shift from treatment to prevention, improving the health of the nation and reducing demand on the Health Service.
The government will also deliver its manifesto commitment of recruiting an additional 8,500 mental health staff by the end of the Parliament and expanding mental health support teams in schools to 100% of schools in England by 2029-30. An extra £4 billion a year will be made available for adult social care by 2028-29, supporting the sector to improve adult social care and deliver a Fair Pay Agreement.
Today’s announcement is the latest milestone in the governments mission to reform the NHS through the Plan for Change, having already delivered over 3.6 million extra elective care appointments, recruited an additional 1,500 GPs, financed the upgrade of over 1,000 GP surgeries and allocated over £750 million for vital maintenance repairs at hospitals across the country.
Unpaid carers in Coventry are being offered free hotel stays and leisure experiences as part of a new scheme to provide a rare break from their demanding responsibilities.
MyTime Coventry, a project run by the charity Local Solutions connecting carers and their families with complimentary leisure, cultural and educational activities, has now launched in the city – with Coombe Abbey Hotel and Coventry Rugby Club the first organisations to get involved.
The project is funded by Coventry City Council, with money from the Department of Health and Social Care for the next two years as part of the Accelerated Reform Fund to trial innovation in Adult Social Care.
Coventry resident Faye Mackey, 36, who started caring for her father Hugh Mackey last year, has become one of the first people to benefit from the scheme after staying at Coombe Abbey Hotel, which is offering an overnight stay with breakfast to carers on a monthly basis.
Coventry Rugby Club has also provided free tickets to first-team matches at Butts Park Arena as part of the initiative.
MyTime was set up in Liverpool by the charity Local Solutions and later was also rolled out in Wigan. Carers can apply for breaks online via mytime4carers.co.uk.
A minimum of 27,500 people are estimated to have caring responsibilities in Coventry, according to Coventry City Council. Meanwhile, one in five carers nationally have not had a break in five years, according to Carers UK.
Hugh, 68, suffered a major internal bleed last spring, which led him to being placed in an induced coma for four months. He then had an arm amputated after contracting sepsis, in addition to having an oesophageal tumour removed.
Faye said she chose to become his carer to provide comfort and familiarity while he adapted to long term-disability.
She said: “When you become a carer, you have to adapt your whole life including your relationships with the people closest to you, which can be really challenging – especially as you often have to make the decision overnight.
“I wouldn’t have done it differently, but it gets to a point where you’d never actively seek a break for all sorts of reasons, so this initiative, in making it easier for carers to access some great experiences in the local area, is absolutely brilliant.
“I spent my 21st birthday at Coombe Abbey – it’s a really special place and it was great to have the chance to visit again after what has been a really challenging year.”
Michalina Kryska, MyTime coordinator for Coventry, hopes more city organisations and businesses will partner with the scheme, which is part of the council’s Carers Action Plan for 2024-26.
She said: “One of the things carers tell us time and again is how much they need a break, yet finding time for themselves can be incredibly difficult.
“MyTime gives carers the opportunity to prioritise their own wellbeing, take a step back, and enjoy some much-needed relaxation. It can be a real boost to mental health.
“For many carers, simply organising an evening off can be complicated. That’s why our partnerships with Coombe Abbey Hotel and Coventry Rugby Club have been so important. They’ve made it possible to offer these experiences in a way that’s easy and accessible.
“The response so far has been overwhelmingly positive. We’re excited about the possibility of expanding it even further to support more carers and their families.”
Cllr Linda Bigham, Cabinet Member for Adult Services at Coventry City Council, added: “There are thousands of people who care for others in Coventry who don’t even realise they are carers.
“It is vital that they have the right support to help them and that’s why this pilot project is so important. I’ve been a carer myself and every day see the compassion and commitment of so many people – of all ages – being there for someone else.
“It is lovely to see the difference that carers getting a break can have, and I’m delighted that both Coombe Abbey Hotel and Coventry Rugby Club have signed up to the MyTime project.
“I hope that more hospitality businesses and venues will be able to see the benefits it brings and consider being a part of the scheme.”
Richard Harrison, Managing Director of No Ordinary Hospitality, which operates Coombe Abbey Hotel, commented: “It’s a real privilege to support the MyTime Carers initiative to give carers in the city a much-needed break, and we are looking forward to welcoming more people to the hotel over the coming months and years.”
Jon Sharp, Executive Chairman of Coventry Rugby Club, said: “Coventry Rugby Club is proud to support the MyTime Carers initiative. As a club rooted in the heart of the community, we believe in using our platform to champion inclusion, wellbeing and opportunity for all.
“Since 2013, it’s been my mission to ensure Cov plays a meaningful role beyond the pitch – and recognising the vital, often unseen work of unpaid carers is part of that.
“They give so much to others, and we’re honoured to give something back and provide some respite and relaxation for such important members of our community.”
Pictured left to right: Gabrielle Boro, Richard Harrison, Hazel Brown and Michalina Kryska, with Faye Mackey and Cllr Linda Bigham (seated) at Coombe Abbey Hotel
Source: International Marine Contractors Association – IMCA
Headline: IMCA launches IMCA Awards 2025 celebrating innovation and impact in marine contracting
This year’sIMCA Awardsare now open for entries, with new categories celebrating outstanding achievement in Innovation and Technology, and People Development, as well as a new Rising Star award to recognise the next generation of talented marine contractors.
The marine contracting industry’s premier awards – sponsored this year by global marine contractor McDermott International and diving contractor Unidive Subsea – return in 2025 to showcase innovative and impactful projects led by IMCA Members.
Last year’s three award categories, Health and Safety Project of the Year, Environmental Sustainability Project of the Year, and the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Project of the Year, which recognises progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions – all return in 2025.
The winners will be announced atIMCA’s Global Summit Gala Dinner, which will take place on 26 November inKuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on the middle night of IMCA’s two-day flagship event. Global Summit tickets, which include entry to the Gala Dinner, are available at a reduced rate until 30 June – find out more here.
Jim Cullen, Technical Director, IMCA said: “We’re excited to share the return of the IMCA Awards, which are a great opportunity to celebrate outstanding achievement, promote innovative projects and approaches, and champion best-practice from across our membership.
“AI and new technology are rapidly changing our industry and creating the need for new skills and training, so it is only right that our Members’ work in response to these opportunities is celebrated through new awards for technological innovation and people development. We also want to celebrate the next generation of talented early-career professionals that are coming through the ranks.
“I would like to offer my thanks to McDermott International and Unidive Subsea for becoming our first IMCA Award sponsors.”
The awards are open to IMCA Members only. A judging panel, made up of selected Committee members, IMCA Secretariat leads, Committee Chairs, and IMCA Global Summit sponsors, will review the entries in a formal and independent scoring process. Shortlisted companies will be announced in the Autumn. The deadline for entries is Monday 1 September 2025.
Find out more about the judging process and criteria, and enter IMCA Awards 2025, here.
For the first time, sponsorship opportunities are available to sponsor individual awards. To find out more about sponsorship and exhibition opportunities at the IMCA Awards and IMCA Global Summit, please contact events@imca-int.com.
The full list of IMCA Awards can be seen below:
Health and Safety Project of the Year – Recognising excellence in health and safety performance.
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Project of the Year – Promoting success in reducing operational and value chain emissions.
Environmental Sustainability Project of the Year – Highlighting projects designed to support environmental sustainability in offshore or marine environments.
People Development Project of the Year – Recognising people-focussed initiatives including skills and training, diversity initiatives, and projects to attract new talent to the sector.
Innovation and Technology Project of the Year – Rewarding advancements in digital transformation, AI, and technological innovation.
Rising Star Award – Celebrating the achievements of an early-career professional with fewer than five years’ experience in the marine contracting industry.
Discover last year’s winning entries, submitted by DeepOcean, Subsea7 and the National Oceanography Centre, and Solstad Offshore, here.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Speech
UK applauds Ukraine’s heroic resistance and demands Russia end its illegal war: UK Statement to the OSCE
UK Military Advisor, Lt Col Joby Rimmer, reiterates the UK’s call for Russia to cease its unlawful aggression against Ukraine and reaffirms Ukraine’s right to self-defence under international law.
Thank you, Madame Chair. The United Kingdom again calls on the Russian Federation to immediately cease its illegal and unprovoked aggression against Ukraine. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been extremely clear: Ukraine is not defeated. On the contrary, it has emerged as a formidable fighting force, demonstrating extraordinary resilience and determination in defending its sovereignty. And let us be clear, Ukraine has an absolute right to defend itself against aggression, and the United Kingdom stands firmly in support of that right.
We remain focused on achieving a just and lasting peace. In Istanbul, Ukraine demonstrated its commitment to peace by offering reasonable and practical proposals aimed at securing an unconditional ceasefire. Regrettably, Russia failed to reciprocate. Instead, it presented maximalist, non-negotiable demands that do not respect Ukraine’s sovereignty. This behaviour underscores that President Putin is not serious about peace and remains committed to prolonging his illegal war.
Since Ukraine’s offer of a full, unconditional ceasefire on 11 March 2025, Russia has continued its brutal campaign, launching daily airstrikes that have killed over 500 civilians and injured more than 2,700. We fully anticipate that the Russian Federation will deliver more disinformation in this forum today about alleged ‘acts of terrorism’ from Ukraine. But the distinction between Ukraine striking military targets and Russia hitting civilian targets is a critical one, both morally and under international law.
There is a clear difference. Ukraine’s drone and missile strikes have been targeting military infrastructure within Russian territory or illegally occupied regions. These include airbases, logistics hubs, ammunition depots, command and control centres and radar and missile systems. These strikes are intended to degrade Russia’s ability to wage war, especially its long-range bombing capabilities. Under international humanitarian law, Ukraine is within its rights to target military assets of an aggressor state, especially in self-defence.
In contrast, Russia has repeatedly launched drone and missile attacks on civilian areas across Ukraine. These have included Residential buildings, Hospitals and Schools, Energy Infrastructure and Emergency Services. In Kharkiv, over 50 explosions were recorded, damaging residential buildings and killing civilians. In Kyiv, three firefighters were killed while responding to earlier strikes. Lviv, Lutsk, and Chernihiv also suffered civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights verified a total of 45,000 civilian casualties as of 30th April 2025 and specified that the real numbers could be higher.
Russian strikes on civilians or civilian infrastructure are either an attempt to terrorise the civilian population and break morale (rather than achieve legitimate military objectives), or a failure to adequately distinguish military targets and act proportionately for military necessity. These are not the actions of a nation seeking peace, despite what President Putin says. These are the acts of blatant retaliation from the Kremlin, following Ukraine’s most successful and comprehensive strike against Russian Strategic bomber air bases.
Russia’s continued occupation in Ukraine and escalating aggression are not only unlawful, but they are also unsustainable. President Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, has now dragged on for over 1,200 days, resulting in catastrophic losses – including an estimated one million Russian casualties. President Putin continues to sacrifice Russian lives and futures and must choose another path – one of peace, responsibility and respect for international law. We have seen what the brave men and women of Ukraine’s Armed Forces are capable of, and the UK will continue to provide them with the tools they need to defend their sovereignty and protect their people. We call on Russia to accept the unconditional ceasefire, return to the negotiating table in good faith, and end this illegal war. Thank you, Madame Chair.
Training soldiers who participate in the atrocities in Gaza is a betrayal of every principle of human rights and international law.
More in External Affairs
The Scottish Greens have condemned the UK Government after it was revealed through a parliamentary question that Israeli Defence Forces personnel are currently being trained on UK military bases.
The shocking revelation comes as Israel continues its relentless assault on Gaza. More than 55,000 Palestinians have already been murdered, the majority of whom are women, children and the elderly.
The further destruction of homes, hospitals, schools, and critical infrastructure has led to the situation in Palestine to be described as “worse than hell on earth” by the head of the International Committee of the Red Cross. Human rights organisations, UN officials and legal scholars around the world have described Israel’s actions as war crimes and acts of genocide.
The UK Government has already faced widespread criticism for continuing to supply arms to Israel despite overwhelming evidence that they are being used in clear violation of international law. The news that UK forces are also providing military training takes that complicity to a far more serious level of active participation.
Scottish Greens Co-Leader Patrick Harvie MSP said:
“The UK is actively training members of the Israeli military while they carry out a brutal assault on Gaza. This is nothing short of disgraceful. This goes beyond complicity – it is direct, active participation in the genocide of the Palestinian people. Every bomb dropped, every home destroyed, every child killed is a crime that the UK Government is now tied to.
“The Scottish Greens have been clear from the start, what we are witnessing in Gaza is a genocide. Tens of thousands of people, most of them women, children and the elderly, have been killed and entire communities have been wiped out. Hospitals, schools, and refugee camps have been targeted. This is not self-defence – it is the destruction of a people through murder and forced displacement.”
“It is appalling that instead of taking action to end the violence, this Labour UK Government are training the Israeli war machine that is committing these crimes. Training soldiers who are part of these atrocities is a betrayal of every principle of human rights and international law. It must stop now.
“We repeat our calls for an immediate ceasefire, an end to UK participation in genocide, and full accountability for war crimes. Scotland must stand on the side of peace and justice – not with those who commit and support these horrific acts. All those who are participating in these atrocities must be brought to justice.”
LEICESTER schools and workplaces are getting ready to take part in Clean Air Day next week.
Clean Air Day, on Thursday 19 June, is the UK’s biggest initiative to reduce air pollution, raising awareness about air quality and encouraging action for a healthier environment.
Selected roads will be closed to traffic so that sports, games and fun activities can be held out on the streets in front of several schools in Leicester.
Among the schools taking part in Leicester are Castle Mead Academy, which will be running sporting activities on the street and waterside activities in conjunction with the Canal & River Trust and Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre, including a ‘park and paddle’ where pupils will be able to arrive at school by bell boat.
Dovelands Primary School will have sports on the streets, cycling activities and the Hop! fully electric green bus, with its signature ‘ribbit’ effect bell, will pay a visit. The Children’s Bookbus will be at Kestrel Mead Infants School, and there will be sport on the street outside Rushey Mead Primary School, as well as a visit from Strider the walking mascot.
Temporary road closures will be in place on Thursday 19 June from 8am until 4pm on Magnus Road, Bessingham Close, Richard III Road, Eastfield Road, Hazeldene Road and Bramble Close.
Parking, waiting and loading will be prohibited from 8am on Wednesday 18 June until 4pm on Thursday 19 June 2025 on sections of Mundesley Road, Kestrel Lane, Richard III Road, Maidenwell Avenue, Foxglove Road and Laverton Road.
Some of the city’s largest workplaces are also getting involved in Clean Air Day. The University of Leicester has organised a walk in Victoria Park, meeting at the memorial arch at 12pm. The walk is suitable for all abilities and is open to staff, students and the public. Researchers from the Centre for Environmental Health and Sustainability, who work on air quality and pollutants, will be taking part in the walk and will be available to discuss their research, how air pollution impacts health and ways we can all support reductions in air pollution.
The University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust will have information stands in hospital restaurants in the run-up to Clean Air Day, offering advice and information to staff and the public on how they can help reduce air pollution, with information on travel, food and nutrition, energy use and some simple flash card quizzes.
The events are being supported by Leicester City Council, national walking, wheeling and cycling charity Sustrans and Living Streets, the UK charity for everyday walking, as well as by the Canal & River Trust and Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre.
Assistant city mayor responsible for air quality, Cllr Geoff Whittle, said: “Clean Air Day is a chance for schools to take part in some fun activities on traffic-free streets, while delivering an important message about improving air quality.
“It’s also a great chance for local workplaces to get involved by promoting the benefits of active travel.
“It is very encouraging to see so many people across the city marking Clean Air Day in this way.”
The city council’s air quality action plan includes commitments to carry out education and awareness campaigns in communities and schools to improve knowledge and understanding of the main sources of pollution and their impact, as well as working with schools to encourage active travel.
From as early as 4 years old we knew that our daughter, Josephine, would most likely need an operation to correct her scoliosis. The thought of the procedure, which involves screwing metal rods into the vertebrae down most of the spine to straighten it out, filled us with terror. We did everything to avoid it — physical therapy twice a week, horse-riding, swimming, and even an innovative dynamic spine brace that was much more comfortable than the traditional hard braces.
But after the pandemic disrupted travel to London for her regular brace adjustments, the scoliosis got worse and even the classic hard brace that went down to her hips did nothing. When it became clear that surgery was the only option to stop the S-shaped curve of her spine getting worse and compressing her organs, we set out to find the best orthopaedic surgeon. We met several excellent surgeons in Brussels before trying UZ Leuven, a university hospital about 30 kilometres east of Brussels in Flanders.
With roots that trace back to 1160, UZ Leuven is one of the largest and oldest teaching hospitals in Europe. KU Leuven, the 600-year-old university to which it is attached, is the oldest in the low countries and considered the most prestigious in Belgium. Turning off the motorway and seeing the massive campus for the first time, I thought we’d arrived at a town rather than a hospital. Impressed by the doctor and the facilities, and relieved that the staff were happy to communicate in English and French, we chose to go ahead with the procedure.
Some months later in 2024, when my daughter was recovering from her successful operation in the new paediatric wing, I remember looking around at the great facilities, which included a rooftop playground, and a well-appointed playroom with events for patients led by staff, and thinking, “I wonder if this place has had EIB funding? It looks like the sort of thing we’d do…”
I didn’t know at the time that the Bank would soon sign a €230 million loan to help fund the hospital’s Health Sciences Campus 2.0 Masterplan. This gave me the chance to write about the plan and have many of my own questions answered about the whole hospital.
Yes, the building that my daughter spent five days in had received EIB funding. The paediatric wing was financed in part with a €325 million loan from the Bank in 2008 under the first phase of the university hospital’s redevelopment. The new loan signed in 2025 is for the second phase of that vision.
In his office. Dr Wim Tambeur, operations director at UZ Leuven, explained the hospital’s Health Sciences Master Plan. “About 20 years ago, we started to think about and redefine our vision of what a university hospital should be and how we envisioned our role,” he says.
“We clearly said that a university hospital is quite unique in its setting because it creates innovation by R&D. We should invent better healthcare and better healthcare models, implement them in daily care, and teach the innovation to our students.”
UZ Leuven is not just a hospital campus but a “city of innovation” integrating clinical care, research, and teaching, he said.
This approach is reflected in many ways that we noticed during our stay. Our daughter’s doctor, for example, was also a professor at KU Leuven. “A lot of our medical staff are also appointed as professors at the university, so that already creates close interaction,” explained Dr Tambeur. “The real innovation is that our research is really focused on how we can improve clinical practice.”
As a practical example, Dr Tambeur pointed to the nuclear medicine building on the campus, which will be expanded with funding from the new loan as one part of the plan. The centre develops specialised radioactive molecules for scans that help doctors in the hospital and scientists from the pharmaceutical industry with which they work to get a precise view of the targets where drugs are working in the body. Such molecules have very short lifespans so need to be produced on site to reduce transport times.
Back at the paediatric wing where my daughter stayed was another great example of how the university hospital combines clinical research with innovation in patient care. The hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit has a unique design in which each baby gets its own quiet little room where parents and family can visit.
Typically, neonatal units, such as the one where my daughter spent five weeks after being born in Brussels, are like busy intensive care wards for adults with bright lights and machines constantly beeping. Access even for families is tightly controlled to limit crowding.
“Neonatal care has improved dramatically in recent decades but has become a lot more intensive,” says Dr Tambeur. “The babies are so surrounded by technical equipment you can barely see them and all the noise and activity is very disturbing for them.”
Dr Tambeur’s ward is designed in concentric circles, with a bay of individual rooms around a central staffing zone and an outer ring of rooms where brothers, sisters, grandparents and so can visit. “It allows for a lot of family involvement without disturbing the care processes,” he says. “And the monitors beep at the nurse’s station rather than the baby’s bed.”
Health outcomes for the newborns seem to have improved and the neonatal care department is studying the long term effects of the new care process design, says Dr Tambeur.
About one year on from the operation, Josephine, who is 15, is rid of her brace, her back is straight, her scar is discreet, and she’s four centimetres taller. We’ve been back to UZ Leuven several times and each time I feel proud to know that the European Investment Bank supports this kind of project.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) held its flagship innovation event of the year today (June 10), featuring the joint award ceremony for the National Industrial Innovation Award and the National Invention and Creation Award. A total of 92 outstanding achievements were recognized, spotlighting Taiwan’s robust capabilities in semiconductors, AI, healthcare, and sustainability. Premier Cho Jung-tai called on award recipients to continue driving innovation forward and contribute lasting momentum to Taiwan’s economic growth. This year’s Distinguished Innovation Award in the Organization Category went to Realtek Semiconductor, Onyx Healthcare, and ITRI’s Biomedical Technology and Device Research Laboratories. Four government agencies were also honored for their contributions to policy innovation and regional industry development. Their achievements exemplify the strong synergy among Taiwan’s industry, government, academia, and research sectors in propelling the nation’s economic future.
In his remarks, Premier Cho highlighted Taiwan’s impressive ranking of 8th among 67 countries in the latest IMD World Competitiveness Ranking. He also noted that Taiwan ranks 3rd globally in both total R&D expenditure and business R&D expenditure as a percentage of GDP. These rankings reflect the deepening commitment from both public and private sectors to investing in research and development-efforts that have earned consistent international recognition. In tandem with promoting the Five Trusted Industry Sectors, relevant ministries and agencies are currently drafting a “Top 10 AI Infrastructure Projects” program aimed at accelerating the next wave of AI development in Taiwan by scaling up industrial applications, integrating AI across various sectors, and facilitating AI adoption in both industry and government, ultimately building the most comprehensive AI supply chain. Meanwhile, this year saw the addition of a Government Agencies category, introduced to encourage government bodies to champion an innovative mindset, foster close collaboration with industry, and deliver tangible benefits for the public. Premier Cho concluded by emphasizing the shared goal of Taiwan’s domestic industry: to maintain our global leadership in semiconductor manufacturing. He urged the industry to adopt a “Taiwan plus” approach that anchors investments in Taiwan while expanding global reach and competitiveness.
Minister of Economic Affairs J.W. Kuo noted that the 9th National Industrial Innovation Award recognized 25 organizations, 8 teams, and 19 individuals from a total of 305 entries-a remarkable display of Taiwan’s innovation prowess. In semiconductors and AI, Realtek Semiconductor leads the global market in Ethernet chipsets and is expanding its core technologies into automotive and smart healthcare applications through diverse products and patents. Kneron, on the other hand, is advancing practical uses of large language models by offering powerful Edge AI computing solutions worldwide. In the healthcare arena, ITRI’s Biomedical Technology and Device Research Laboratories have pioneered a Virtual-Physical Integration Innovation Cross-Domain Platform for Digital Healthcare, energizing Taiwan’s push toward digital innovation. On the net-zero sustainability front, TSMC has built a world-leading zero-waste manufacturing center, cutting carbon emissions by more than 40,000 tons each year in support of a circular green economy. Formosa Chemicals & Fibre Corp is also contributing to global sustainability through its marine waste recycling technology.
Minister Kuo commended the 40 recipients of the National Invention and Creation Award, selected from 418 entries. With half of the winning entries from enterprises, it underscores the importance of strategic patent deployment in Taiwan’s industrial sector. These innovations span a broad range of fields, including 5G, smart AI healthcare, assistive devices for seniors, agricultural sensing, and smart living applications, all helping to cement Taiwan’s leadership in future-ready patent development.
Beyond celebrating industrial innovation, this year’s award ceremony also embraced social care and human connection. The MOEA specially invited the choir from Baolai Junior High School in Kaohsiung’s Liouguei District to perform, with the hope of inspiring greater support for education in rural communities. Looking to the future, the MOEA reaffirms its role as a guiding force that unites industry, government, academia, and research institutions to forge an even more competitive economic landscape for Taiwan on the global stage.
The Galaxy Ring is a revolutionary addition to Samsung’s wearable line-up, set to redefine how users can track and optimise their wellness using technology. Designed to offer more than just fitness tracking, the Galaxy Ring integrates seamlessly with your smartphone, ensuring an elevated user experience, whether you’re using a Galaxy device or other smartphones.
Compatibility Across Platforms
While the Galaxy Ring offers full integration with Samsung’s vast ecosystem, it is also designed with compatibility in mind for other smartphones. For users of other platforms or operating systems, the Galaxy Ring will offer limited functionality, much like the current Galaxy Watch. Users can expect to receive notifications, track basic health data, and benefit from other core features, although some advanced functionalities may be restricted when compared to its use with Samsung Galaxy smartphones.
Unmatched Integration with the Samsung Galaxy Ecosystem
For those within the Samsung ecosystem, the Galaxy Ring offers a highly connected experience, effortlessly syncing with devices like the Galaxy Buds, Samsung SmartThings, and Bixby. Whether you’re adjusting your smart home devices or controlling your music through your Galaxy Ring, the synergy across devices enhances your daily routine and helps you stay more connected than ever before.
Comprehensive Health and Fitness App Integration
As a health-focused wearable, the Galaxy Ring is designed to sync seamlessly with Samsung’s Health app, Google Fit, and a variety of third-party fitness apps. The device’s integration with these platforms ensures users can track a broad range of health metrics, from activity levels to sleep patterns. Samsung is also committed to delivering future software updates, expanding app compatibility, and providing enhanced features as the Galaxy Ring evolves.
Revolutionise Your Sleep Routine
More than just another sleep tracker, the Galaxy Ring is your personal sleep assistant. Equipped with Samsung Health, the Galaxy Ring offers tailored sleep suggestions based on your unique sleep patterns, habits, and conditions. By analysing both your sleep quality and daily routines, it recommends the most suitable bedtime to ensure you get the rest you deserve. This device goes beyond basic sleep analysis by providing actionable insights for improving sleep hygiene. It suggests optimal bedtimes and tracks sleep quality to help users establish healthy routines. Plus, with snore detection capabilities, you’ll be able to assess your sleep environment and discover how to address potential disruptions.
The Galaxy Ring offers personalised Sleep Scores, a comprehensive assessment of your sleep quality. By evaluating various factors, such as how long you stay in deep sleep versus lighter stages, the ring provides suggestions on how to improve your nightly rest, empowering you to make data-driven decisions for better sleep health.
Regular Software Updates for Long-Term Value
Samsung’s commitment to providing continuous software updates guarantees that the Galaxy Ring will remain up-to-date with the latest features, enhancements, and security patches. With the assurance of regular software upgrades, users can enjoy an ever-improving experience that aligns with the latest in wearable technology.
You can get the Samsung Galaxy Ring in Samsung stores, online, the Samsung Shop App, as well as participating retailers and operators, at a recommended retail price of R7,999[1].
[1]Recommended Retail Price Only. Prices may vary per retailer.
On a quiet Tuesday evening, an ambulance pulls into Ati provincial hospital in Chad’s central Batha region. Inside are four members of a family with symptoms of diphtheria – an entirely preventable disease that has resurged across the country in recent years. Since July 2024, more than 2,700 cases have been reported, due in large part to low vaccination coverage and limited public awareness of the disease.
The mother and her three children have travelled 65 km over rough, unpaved roads to reach the hospital. In Chad, motorised transport is scarce and expensive, making a journey of this length is anything but simple. Medical staff from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) are able to save the mother and two older children, but the youngest child is in a serious condition and dies a few days later.
Diphtheria is caused by a bacterium that produces a dangerous toxin. It can cause fever, respiratory distress and a swollen neck, and in severe cases can lead to organ failure and death – especially in children with pre-existing health conditions.
To help curb the epidemic and slow the spread of this disease – which was long believed to be under control in Chad – MSF has been supporting Chad’s Ministry of Public Health and Prevention by treating patients for the disease, monitoring its spread and carrying out a mass vaccination campaign to prevent more people from becoming infected. The vaccination campaign was a major logistical feat, reaching around 500,000 people across two arid regions where travel is difficult, and health centres are few and far between.
Maryam receives the diphtheria vaccine during market day in Mantcharné. She and her mother walked more than five kilometres from their village to reach the market. Chad, November 2024.
Reaching patients early
In the diphtheria treatment unit at Ati provincial hospital, 11-year-old Daoud Mahadi is slowly recovering from the disease. When his symptoms first appeared, his mother tried to treat him with traditional medicine, as there was no health centre nearby.
“We tried traditional medicine because we had no other option, but it didn’t help,” says his mother. “I watched my child grow weaker every day – he couldn’t even swallow water.” When Daoud arrived at the hospital, he was severely malnourished, weighing barely 15 kg.
The response to diphtheria in Chad comes up against a number of serious challenges, including people’s lack of knowledge about the disease, their limited access to healthcare, and the lack of treatment options.
MSF teams are also working in Moussoro hospital, in Barh-El-Gazel region, where we have been treating patients and training health workers, as well as supporting peripheral health centres to diagnose and treat people with diphtheria. Since October 2024, MSF teams in Ati and Moussoro have treated more than 1,600 patients, including 700 severe cases.
Along with our medical response, MSF has rehabilitated 20 wells across Moussoro and neighbouring Chaddra districts to improve people’s access to clean water and help prevent further outbreaks of infectious diseases.
A group of children learn about diphtheria with the MSF team, who explain how vaccination protects against disease. Alifa, Chad, November 2024.
Vaccination: a logistical feat
To address the low immunisation rates that fuelled the epidemic, MSF worked with the Ministry of Public Health and Prevention to run a mass vaccination campaign targeting 300,000 people in Batha region and 200,000 people in Barh-El-Gazel region. The campaign focused on reaching remote and isolated communities, including nomadic people, and aimed to deliver the two vaccine doses required for full protection against diphtheria.
Reaching these scattered communities was one of the biggest challenges of organising the mass vaccination campaign. With communities often located far apart, in areas without passable roads, MSF deployed around 100 motorcycles and off-road vehicles to get vaccination teams and vaccines to where they were needed.
Diphtheria vaccines must be kept at a temperature of between 2°C and 8°C.
“Transporting vaccines while maintaining the cold chain in a desert climate where temperatures can hit 45°C is an enormous challenge,” said Jean Bourges, MSF head of mission. “This was a massive deployment effort, especially in a context where health infrastructure is extremely limited, and power supplies are unreliable.”
To reach nomadic communities in Batha region and gain their trust, MSF and the Ministry of Public Health and Prevention worked with the Ministry of Livestock to implement a ‘One Health’ strategy. This integrated approach – linking human, animal and environmental health – enabled teams to build up trust with communities and vaccinate people during livestock vaccination campaigns – an initiative which significantly boosted vaccination coverage for diphtheria.
In remote areas where roads are non-existent or safety is sometimes uncertain, MSF uses motorcycles to send vaccination teams, awareness-raising officers, and the equipment needed to carry out activities. Chad, November 2024.
The need to remain vigilant
As early as 2023, we warned of a resurgence of diphtheria across West Africa. Protection against this disease depends on routine immunisation programmes, which were severely disrupted after the COVID-19 pandemic, notably due to lack of funding and loss of priority.
To prevent future outbreaks, MSF continues to advocate for stronger disease surveillance and more robust vaccination programmes.
Bengaluru, India –December 4, 2024: A latest report by Greenpeace India, “Beyond North India: NO₂ Pollution and Health Risks in Seven Major Indian Cities”, reveals alarming levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) pollution in Bengaluru.
Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) is a near-invisible toxic gas closely linked to traffic and fuel burning, common in urban areas. That means vehicles and energy generation from fossil fuel are important sources of NO₂.
The WHO recommends an annual NO2 concentration of no more than 10 µg/m³, while the NAAQS limit is 40 µg/m³. In 2023, Bengaluru’s 13 Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring (CAAQM) stations recorded varying levels of air quality. The highest NO2 levels were measured at City Railway Station, which exceeded WHO guidelines for over 80% of the year. Additionally, BTM Layout and Silk Road air quality monitoring stations were among the city’s most polluted. Exposure to NO2 poses a serious health risk to residents, especially with such frequently high concentrations in public spaces.
Annual average NO2concentrations for all CAAQM monitors in Bengaluru, 2023. Monitoring stations we classified as roadside are shown in dark blue (Column values are rounded).
Overwhelming scientific evidence links NO₂ exposure to adverse health impacts such as risk of asthma, airway inflammation, respiratory irritation, and the worsening of existing respiratory conditions. It can impair lung development, intensify allergies and increase susceptibility to respiratory mortality and death from circulatory diseases, ischemic heart disease, and even lung cancer. The report highlights that NO₂ pollution in 2019 could have been responsible for as many as 2,730 cases of paediatric asthma in Bengaluru.
“This report underscores a crucial truth: air pollution is not limited to Delhi or North India. The transportation sector is the largest contributor to high NO₂ levels across cities in India. As cities grow, the rise in private vehicles worsens air quality and jeopardizes public health. To tackle this, we need a fundamental shift towards a sustainable, efficient public transportation system. Investing in cleaner, more accessible transport options is not just an environmental necessity—it’s an urgent public health imperative. The government must prioritize cleaner mobility solutions to ensure a healthier future, said Selomi Garniak, Climate Justice Campaigner at Greenpeace India.
India’s response to the air pollution crisis, particularly NO2 pollution, falls woefully short of global health standards. India’s Air pollution Standards (NAAQS) are far less stringent than WHO guidelines. Despite significant advancements in understanding the health risks posed by air pollution, especially at low exposure levels, India has not updated its NAAQS since 15 years . This outdated regulatory framework fails to protect public health adequately, leaving millions vulnerable to the severe consequences of air pollution.
Air pollution is a growing public health threat in India, requiring bold, innovative solutions. One such solution is an affordable ‘Clean Air Concession’ for public transportation. By making mass transit more accessible, this policy can encourage people to leave their cars behind, reducing congestion and harmful emissions. This simple measure can significantly improve air quality, public health, and create more inclusive, healthier cities. said Aakiz Farooq, Mobility Campaigner at Greenpeace India.
Poor air quality in major Indian cities is a serious public health concern. To address this, Greenpeace India recommends a region-specific approach for cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Pune. In addition to revising NAAQS, the focus should be on strengthening healthcare services to diagnose air pollution-related conditions and implementing a comprehensive health advisory system with public education and timely alerts during high pollution periods. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, pregnant women, outdoor workers, and those with pre-existing conditions, should receive prioritized health interventions.
Local governments should focus on reducing vehicular emissions by enhancing public transport, including fare-free schemes for women. Increased investment is needed in hybrid air quality monitoring networks that combine low-cost sensors, existing systems, and satellite data. This data-driven approach will help track progress and guide effective interventions to reduce pollution levels.
For More details please contact- Selomi Garnaik- Greenpeace Campaigner Contact – ph- +91-9691330473 Mail- [email protected]
Annexure 1
Key Highlights
In 2023, annual NO₂ concentrations exceeded the WHO health-based guideline at all 13 government monitored Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring stations (CAAQM) .
The highest concentrations were recorded at the City Railway Station monitoring station.
Monitoring stations that exceeded the WHO health guidelines in 2023 were located near five schools.
In 2023, daily average NO₂ concentrations were higher than the WHO daily guideline at the City Railway Station for 80% of days in the year.
Over the last five years, trends in NO₂ concentrations from ground-level monitors show no significant improvement in air quality. In fact, satellite observations suggest that pollution across the city is worsening.
Road transport is the second-largest source of NOx emissions in Bengaluru, accounting for 20% of emissions in the EDGAR emission inventory.
Annexure 2-
About Greenpeace
Greenpeace India is a part of the global environmental organisation, dedicated to tackling pressing environmental challenges through advocacy, campaigns, and public engagement. Greenpeace India’s Climate Justice Campaign advocates for accountability, equitable policy changes, and climate finance to address the rising climate impacts felt by communities in South Asia.
Funding for the free bus travel initiative was agreed as part of the Council’s 2025/26 budget, with an additional day to raise awareness about the danger of air pollution to communities.
Air pollution is linked to 43,000 deaths per year in the UK and is recognised by the World Health Organisation and the UK Government as the largest environmental threat to our health.
Continuing the success of the 2024 free bus travel offer, where 38,042 people took advantage of the offer, saving almost £108,000 in fares to those who travelled by bus, the initiative is designed to encourage people to get onboard their local bus services and travel sustainably.
On 19 June, people can take advantage of the free bus travel offer for journeys made fully in Perth and Kinross provided by local bus operators Stagecoach East Scotland, Docherty’s Midland Coaches, Elizabeth Yule, Sweeney’s Garage and Glenfarg Community Transport Group.
Passengers who have a free U22, 60+ or disabled concessionary bus pass should use their bus pass as normal to travel.
Councillor Grant Laing, Perth and Kinross Council Leader said: “Building on the success of last year’s free bus travel initiative, I’m thrilled that this year, we are not only offering free bus on the first Saturday of every month, but an additional day has also been added to raise awareness of air pollution.
“On Clean Air Day, I would particularly encourage people who normally travel to work on a weekday to leave the car at home, save on parking and fuel and travel for free on your local bus. This could be the first step to loving your local bus.”
Councillor Richard Watters, Convener of the Council’s Climate Change and Sustainability Committee added: “I’m pleased to see the council taking meaningful action to tackle air pollution – not just on Clean Air Day but throughout the year.
“Initiatives like the free bus travel offer are encouraging people to get onboard their local bus service, helping to reduce carbon emissions. It’s encouraging to see that over 38,000 people took advantage of the offer last year, highlighting growing support for sustainable travel. We are also fortunate that most of Stagecoach local bus services in Perth City are operated by electric buses.
“We’re also making real progress in reducing emissions from our own operations. As part of the fleet decarbonisation strategy, 18 refuse collection vehicles have already switched to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), a cleaner alternative to diesel. Refuse collection vehicles based in Blairgowrie, Crieff, Kinross, and Pitlochry will also transition to HVO.
“Tayside Contracts has introduced “TayLow”, a warm mix asphalt to be used in roads construction across Perth and Kinross. It uses less energy and can cut emissions by 5% and 15%, supporting more sustainable construction.”
Councillor Liz Barrett, Vice-Convenor of the Council’s Climate Change and Sustainability Committee continued “The new Kingsway, creating a 12km network of walking and cycling paths, connecting the neighbouring communities with Perth city centre is another step forward in offering people healthier, greener alternatives to car travel.
“Complementing this, our Nature Restoration Fund supports community-led projects that restore habitats, tackle biodiversity loss and strengthen nature networks that help filter air, absorb carbon and improve overall air quality.
“By working closely with our partners and communities, we’ll continue to take action to reduce the harmful health effects of air pollution, especially for those most at risk including children, older people, people with health conditions and people who stay in the most polluted areas.”
An exhibition showcasing artwork by unpaid carers in Derby has been launched to mark National Carers’ Week. The art, created by members of Derby’s Carers Craft Café, is on display to the public at the Council House, alongside their inspirational stories.
Initially established at QUAD following the pandemic, the Carers’ Craft Café has evolved in recent years and now meets monthly at Derby’s Dubrek Studios. This setting allows carers to explore their creative sides while connecting with others.
The exhibition, themed ‘How creativity supports me’, features a variety of works produced at the Craft Café, alongside pieces inspired by the café and others created during carers’ limited personal time. The exhibition is located in the foyer of the Council House, near the Better Together Café, until Thursday 3 July, when it will move into Riverside Library for the remainder of the month.
Anna Botham-Collins, who cares for her elderly parents and uncle, has her artwork on display. She said:
When I go to the café, it’s nice to chat to other people who understand your situation. There’s a kinship between the people that go along. It’s good to have that time where you can turn your mind off and there’s no pressure.
Before I registered as a carer, I didn’t realise the support that was available. I’m sure there are a lot of people in the same situation, so I hope this exhibition will raise awareness.
Fellow member Barbara Lucas, who is a carer for her husband, said:
When started going to the café, we had just moved to Derby so it really helped me get to know people. I enjoy trying different ways to be creative and chatting to people who are in the same situation as I am.
Carers’ Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK. It also helps people who don’t think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access much-needed support.
Cllr Alison Martin (centre) with carers and representatives from Universal Services for Carers
This year the theme is ‘Caring About Equality’ highlighting the inequalities faced by unpaid carers, including a greater risk of poverty, social isolation, poor mental and physical health. Far too often, carers of all-ages miss out on opportunities in their education, careers, or personal lives, just because of their caring role.
Unpaid carers in Derby can receive assistance through Universal Services for Carers. This service, funded by Derby City Council and the Derby and Derbyshire Integrated Care Board, and provided by Citizens Advice Mid Mercia, offers free, confidential, and impartial support specifically for unpaid carers in the city.
Its aim is to provide a comprehensive range of services to help unpaid carers maintain their emotional and physical wellbeing, feel empowered, and gain knowledge and skills. Services include:
A helpline for carers staffed by experienced advisers who can provide information, support and signposting
A variety of indoor, outdoor and virtual workshops and events to provide respite, reducing stress and anxiety
Awareness and training sessions to support carers in their role
Peer support groups, which provide a much-needed opportunity to meet others living in similar situations.
Councillor Alison Martin, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Care, said:
This exhibition is an inspiring way to celebrate the talent and resilience of Derby’s unpaid carers. It highlights how vital groups like the Carers’ Craft Café are for well-being.
The city’s carers contribute so much to our community, often while facing significant challenges, and it’s essential that we recognise their efforts and provide them with the support they deserve. Universal Services for Carers in Derby is a vital service and I’d encourage carers to contact them for support.
Israeli gunfire and airstrikes killed at least 60 Palestinians in Gaza on Wednesday, most of them near an aid site operated by the U.S- and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation in the centre of the enclave, local health officials said.
Medical officials at Shifa and Al-Quds hospitals said at least 25 people were killed and dozens wounded as they approached a food distribution centre near the former Jewish settlement of Netzarim before dawn.
Israel’s military, which has been at war with Hamas militants since October 2023, said its forces fired warning shots overnight towards a group of suspects as they posed a threat to troops in the area of the Netzarim Corridor.
“This is despite warnings that the area is an active combat zone. The IDF is aware of reports regarding individuals injured; the details are under review,” it said.
Later on Wednesday, health officials at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip said at least 14 people had been killed by Israeli gunfire as they approached another GHF site in Rafah.
The GHF late on Wednesday accused Hamas of killing at least five people in an attack on a bus carrying two dozen Palestinians working with the aid organization to one of its distribution sites.
“We will continue our mission to provide critical aid to the people of Gaza,” it said in a statement.
The foundation earlier said it was unaware of Wednesday’s incidents involving civilians but added that it was working closely with Israeli authorities to ensure safe passage routes are maintained, and that it was essential for Palestinians to closely follow instructions.
“Ultimately, the solution is more aid, which will create more certainty and less urgency among the population,” it said by email in response to Reuters questions.
“There is not yet enough food to feed everyone in need in Gaza. Our current focus is to feed as many people as is safely possible within the constraints of a highly volatile environment.”
GHF said it distributed 2.5 million meals on Wednesday, the largest single-day delivery since it began operations, bringing to more than 16 million the number of meals provided since its operations started in late May.
Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry says that since then, 163 Palestinians had been killed and over 1,000 wounded trying to obtain the food boxes.
The United Nations has condemned the killings and has refused to supply aid via the foundation, which uses private contractors with Israeli military backup in what they say is a breach of humanitarian standards.
Elsewhere in Gaza on Wednesday, its health ministry said at least 11 other people were killed by separate Israeli gunfire and strikes across the coastal enclave.
The war erupted 20 months ago after Hamas-led militants took 251 hostages and killed 1,200 people, most of them civilians, on October 7, 2023, Israel’s single deadliest day.
Israel’s military campaign has since killed nearly 55,000 Palestinians, most of them civilians, according to health authorities in Gaza, and flattened much of the densely populated strip, which is home to more than two million people. Most of the population is displaced and malnutrition is widespread.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday there had been “significant progress” in efforts to secure the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza, but that it was “too soon” to raise hopes that a deal would be reached.
Two Hamas sources told Reuters they did not know about any breakthrough in negotiations.
Joanne McElmeel, ABC Tourism Trade Liaison Officer pictured with local tourism businesses who successfully completed the Sustainable Business Pathway Programme.
Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council in partnership with Tourism Northern Ireland has successfully delivered the Sustainable Business Pathway Programme, reinforcing their commitment towards becoming a more sustainable and resilient tourism destination.
As one of the first councils in Northern Ireland to introduce the localised Sustainable Tourism Business initiative, the Council is taking steps to support the local industry in adopting environmentally and socially responsible practices. Facilitated by sustainability training specialists The Tourism Space, the 15-week programme supported ten tourism businesses from across the Borough and encouraged practical, collective action on sustainability at a local level.
Each business developed its own sustainability action plan as part of the programme, outlining measurable targets for reducing environmental impact, identifying cost savings and enhancing visitor experience. Their participation and sustained commitment was recognised with a Level 4 Certificate in Sustainable Tourism Practice in Destinations, accredited by Ulster University.
Speaking about the programme, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Alderman Stephen Moutray said:
“As one of the first councils in Northern Ireland to partner with Tourism NI on this important initiative, we are proud to be leading the way in sustainable tourism development. The Sustainable Business Pathway Programme reflects our Borough’s commitment to responsible growth and innovation. I commend all participating businesses for embracing this opportunity. Their dedication not only strengthens our local tourism sector but also helps secure a more sustainable future for our communities and visitors alike.”
Reflecting on her experience, Helen Forster of Charlemont Arms Hotel commented,
“This programme has equipped me with new insights, renewed confidence and a clear sense of direction. As a small hotel in beautiful historic City of Armagh we have both a responsibility and an opportunity to contribute to the promotion of the place we call home as a sustainable destination.”
With the programme now complete, ABC Council are now part of a growing network of destinations across Northern Ireland working to embed sustainability into the visitor experience. The insights gained and outcomes achieved will help shape future council initiatives, while participating businesses are now well placed to begin acting as local champions for more sustainable tourism.
For more information on support available for Tourism and Hospitality businesses, please contact Joanne McElmeel
As part of the ongoing Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan visited Tigipur village on the outskirts of Delhi on Wednesday. The visit aimed to engage directly with farmers, promote the adoption of modern agricultural technologies, and gather ground-level feedback for shaping future agricultural policies.
Chouhan, accompanied by Secretary (DARE) and ICAR Director General Dr. M.L. Jat and senior officials, participated in a Kisan Chaupal where he interacted with farmers on key issues like seed production, polyhouse farming, and high-value crop cultivation. He lauded the innovative efforts of local farmers and witnessed a live drone demonstration for pesticide and nutrient application.
Emphasizing the importance of field-based research, Chouhan stated that scientists would now work closely with farmers to address real-time agricultural challenges. He noted that over the last 15 days, 2,170 ICAR teams had engaged with nearly 1.08 crore farmers nationwide.
Highlighting concerns over declining soil fertility, Chouhan urged farmers to utilize Soil Health Cards and adopt sustainable farming practices. He also outlined the government’s focus on crop diversification, horticulture, and market-oriented agriculture, particularly in regions like Delhi with strong market linkages.
Assuring better inclusion of Delhi’s farmers in central schemes, Chouhan announced the rollout of several initiatives, including PM-AASHA, RKVY, crop insurance, and subsidies for polyhouses, orchards, and agri-machinery. He called on the Delhi government to submit proposals to expedite implementation.
He said, “Delhi’s farmers will now play a key role in building an Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and benefit from every Central Government scheme. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we are committed to transforming both the destiny and the landscape of Delhi’s farmers.”
The Minister reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to farmers’ welfare and warned of strict action against the sale of counterfeit pesticides and fertilizers. “We will not allow anyone to exploit our farmers,” he declared.
Chouhan’s visit comes ahead of the campaign’s grand finale in Bardoli, Gujarat, marking the culmination of a 15-day nationwide outreach aimed at transforming Indian agriculture under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hilary Bowman-Smart, Research Fellow, Australian Centre for Precision Health, University of South Australia
Monash IVF CEO Michael Knaap has resigned after one of the company’s Melbourne clinics mistakenly transferred the wrong embryo to a patient. The patient wanted her partner’s embryo, but instead her own embryo was transferred.
It is the second time this year Monash IVF has made such an announcement. In April, the company revealed a clinic in Brisbane had mixed up two different couples’ embryos.
IVF is big business in Australia. When Monash IVF was listed on the stock exchange in 2014, it raised more than A$300 million, with financial analysts noting the potential for massive profits, as “people will pay almost anything to have a baby”.
Total annual revenue in Australia from the IVF industry is more than $800 million. But what does the booming IVF industry mean for patients?
Victoria passed legislation in 2008, with a guiding principle to safeguard children born through assisted reproduction. However, until recently, Queensland largely relied on industry self-regulation.
Commercialisation is not necessarily a bad thing for patients. It can lead to innovation that improves the chances of successfully having a baby.
However, clinicians, ethicists and patients have raised concerns about the effects of commercialisation on the quality and cost of service provision in IVF.
With the rapid growth of the sector and high-profile incidents such as those at Monash IVF, stronger and more comprehensive regulation at the national level can help ensure quality and safety for patients.
High costs can lead to inequities in access
Most IVF in Australia occurs in private practice, not the public system. While Medicare rebates are available, there is usually a significant out-of-pocket expense. This can range from a few hundred dollars to many thousands for each cycle. IVF can therefore be a big financial decision. Financial expense is one of the biggest barriers, which leads to inequities in access between those who can afford it and those who can’t.
The costs stack up even more if you want non-essential “add-ons”, such as pre-implantation genetic testing, acupuncture, or embryo time-lapse imaging. A study in 2021 found 82% of women using IVF in Australia had used an add-on during their IVF treatment.
However, the evidence for these claims is often weak or non-existent. They also come with significant costs and can potentially take advantage of people’s hopes, if they are willing to pay “whatever it takes” to have a baby.
Commercial providers in the IVF industry can help provide choice, particularly as it is difficult to get IVF in the public system.
However, when health care becomes a business, a risk is that the relationship between the patient and doctor can be affected: a patient seeking treatment becomes a “customer” buying a product.
The therapeutic relationship should be about enhancing patients’ health and wellbeing, relieving suffering, and promoting human flourishing.
When we talk about “choice” in medicine, we often think about ideas such as informed consent, autonomy and the best interests of the patient. However, if we think of patients as customers, “choice” may become more about being free to purchase what you want to.
The commercialisation of the sector can also increase the risk of over-servicing, where financial incentives may shape medical decision-making.
This doesn’t necessarily mean clinics are making deliberate decisions or misleading patients for financial benefit. However, it can mean doing more IVF cycles, even as success becomes increasingly unlikely.
We need to ensure doctors don’t feel pressure – directly or indirectly – to provide particular treatments just because a patient is willing to pay for it.
Medical professionals’ obligations
Doctors and other healthcare professionals have special responsibilities and moral obligations because of their role. They serve an essential human need in society because of their particular expertise in health and wellbeing. And they often have a monopoly on the essential services they offer.
Without patients’ trust that clinicians are being guided by medical reasons instead of financial ones, their special and privileged role to promote human flourishing can be undermined.
This special role is not necessarily incompatible with business. However, it is essential we allow doctors to maintain their focus on patient wellbeing. This is reflected in the doctors’ code of conduct, which notes their “duty to make the care of patients their first concern”.
What happens next?
Much public and media discourse has framed the embryo mix-up primarily as a reputational and financial risk to Monash IVF – but it is about patients. It’s not (just) an error of corporate governance, it’s about the special trust that we as a society place in medical practice.
IVF is expensive, and can be tough both emotionally and physically. One of the ways we can ensure trust in IVF services is by moving towards consistent and improved regulation at the national level. This might include more uniform standards and policies around who is eligible for IVF.
IVF industry regulation is on the agenda for the federal and state health ministers tomorrow. While there is still much to be done, a review of the regulation and processes in this sector could help prevent more embryo mix-ups from happening in the future.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
