NewzIntel.com

Category: Health

  • MIL-OSI Global: Urban environments significantly increase risk of developing asthma – new research

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Zhebin Yu, Postdoctoral researcher in Environmental Medical Epidemiology, Karolinska Institutet

    The ‘urban exposome’ has a significant impact on asthma risk. Bobex-73/ Shutterstock

    Asthma is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide, affecting around 260 million people.

    Researchers have long know that environmental factors, such as air pollution and lack of green spaces, are linked to respiratory diseases such as asthma. But the joint impact of these various environmental factors on a person’s risk of developing asthma has, until now, remained unclear.

    Our study is the first to reveal the joint impact of multiple environmental factors in urban areas, known as the urban exposome, on the risk of developing asthma. We found that air pollution, lack of green space and areas built primarily from concrete and asphalt are linked with significantly greater risk of developing the condition.

    To conduct our study, we analysed data from 349,037 participants from across 14 cohorts in Europe. Participants ranged in age from birth to 70 years old.

    We also linked three major external environmental factors – air pollution, the built-up environment (such as the amount of green space a person had access to or the amount of artificial light they were exposed to at night) and ambient temperature – to participants’ home addresses at the beginning of the study.

    Participants were then grouped based on their exposure levels to the three major environmental factors. This allowed us to examine how exposure was linked to the onset of asthma and also calculate what a person’s risk of developing asthma would be if exposed to these environmental conditions.

    We also accounted for factors that might have affected the results, such as a person’s age, sex, ethnic background, weight, socioeconomic status and whether they smoked (or were exposed to smoke).

    We found that adults living in areas with high levels of air pollution had a 13% higher risk of developing asthma compared to people living in low pollution areas. Children living in high pollution areas had an 18% greater risk of developing asthma.

    Adults living in areas that lacked green space had a 15% greater risk of developing asthma, while children had a 38% greater risk.

    But one of the most significant findings of our study was just how much joint exposure to these environmental factors contributed to new asthma cases in both children and adults.

    Three aspects of urban environments have a major influence of asthma risk.
    Holiday62/ Shutterstock

    We found that the most hazardous urban environments were those characterised by high levels of air pollution, limited access to green spaces and those that were built primarily from concrete and asphalt. This increased an adult’s risk of asthma by 27% and a child’s risk of asthma by 35%.

    Even areas without high levels of air pollution, but which were built primarily from concrete and asphalt and lacked green spaces, increased asthma risk by as much as 36%.

    Urban planning and asthma risk

    Our findings are generally consistent with what previous studies have found on the effects of urban environments, air pollution and green space on asthma risk. However, our study is the first to look at asthma incidence in both adults and children.

    It’s also the first study to cover the entire life-course and illustrate how multiple aspects of the urban exposome affect asthma incidence in all age groups.

    It underscores the critical role that urban environments play in shaping respiratory health. We calculated that a significant proportion of asthma cases – almost 12% – could be directly attributed to urban environments.

    Exposure to a combination of air pollution, poor urban planning and extreme temperatures are a significant driver of asthma risk across a person’s lifespan.

    With more people moving to cities every year, it’s essential that we rethink how we design and manage urban spaces to prioritise health and wellbeing. Cities can help prevent asthma and improve quality of life by introducing policies that aim to reduce air pollution, expand green spaces and design infrastructure that is more resilient to extreme temperatures.

    Zhebin Yu receives funding from Swedish Research Council and Swedish Research Council for Health, Well-being and Welfare.

    Erik Melen receives funding from the Swedish Research Council, the Swedish Heart-Lung Foundation and Region Stockholm. Melen has also received advisory board or lecture fees from ALK, AstraZeneca, Chiesi and Sanofi outside the present study.

    – ref. Urban environments significantly increase risk of developing asthma – new research – https://theconversation.com/urban-environments-significantly-increase-risk-of-developing-asthma-new-research-256715

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Placenta bandages have far more health benefits than risky placenta pills − a bioengineer explains

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Marley Dewey, Assistant Professor of Bioengineering, University of California, Santa Barbara

    With some bioengineering, placentas can be recycled for various medical treatments. mikroman6/Moment via Getty Images

    Eating a placenta may not give you the health benefits some people want you to believe it has, but using it as a bandage might.

    The placenta is an organ created during pregnancy that provides nutrients to a growing fetus through an umbilical cord. It’s usually large and relatively flat, composed of blood vessels, stem and immune cells, and collagen. It doesn’t look particularly appetizing to most people, and those who have eaten placentas often mention an unpleasant taste or smell.

    But in the early 2000s, the practice of mothers eating their placenta after childbirth, claiming health benefits and mood improvement, gained mainstream attention. This trend typically involves putting your placenta into capsules you can take as pills, and there are even companies selling custom-made and do-it-yourself products online.

    While some mammals may eat their own placentas due to limited nutritional resources in the wild, the benefits people might get from eating placentas is unclear.

    If boiled and dehydrated, the useful components of the placenta may be altered and reduced. If ingested raw, pathogens may remain on the surface of the placenta. In 2016, after a newborn was hospitalized multiple times from an infection potentially resulting from the mother ingesting her placenta, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mothers avoid taking placenta pills.

    I can’t personally speak to the taste of placentas. However, as a bioengineer who designs materials to regenerate injured bones and other tissues, I along with my colleagues have uncovered a much clearer picture of the benefits placentas can offer as a biomaterial to repair wounds – if used properly.

    The placenta contains many medically useful components – just not when eaten.
    Sinhyu/iStock via Getty Images Plus

    Placenta as biomaterial

    Biomaterials are materials designed to interface with your body to repair damage. If you burned your skin, for example, your doctor may use a biomaterial such as a skin graft to help your body repair the damaged tissue, ideally providing nutrients to the damaged area to promote cell growth.

    Researchers have been exploring recycling placentas, which are often thrown away after delivery, as a type of biomaterial to regrow wounded tissue in patients. Because the placenta is rich in nutrients and stem cells that give it antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and pro-regenerative properties, this organ is a particularly good candidate for medical applications.

    Your body normally responds to a wound with inflammation, which is an immune reaction that clears harmful stimuli and pathogens, often resulting in swelling and pain around the injury site.

    Unfortunately, sometimes this inflammatory process can get out of hand and lead to chronic wounds and prevent healing. But the active biomolecules within the placenta work with your immune system to promote repair by reducing inflammation and preventing scar formation.

    For example, chronic diabetic foot ulcers are a challenging injury that sometimes never closes and leads to foot amputation. Researchers found that using biomaterials made of parts of the placenta to treat these injuries resulted in a wound closure rate 6.24 times higher than conventional treatments. Researchers have also found that placenta-based biomaterials can reduce scarring after heart injury.

    I have used human placentas in my own research to study how they work in a variety of wound repair scenarios. I can take a volunteer patient’s donated placenta and remove factors that may negatively affect healing, such as all cells, blood and other components that may cause inflammation. Then I can take the material that’s left – primarily containing essential growth nutrients and the tissue foundation that cells used to live in – and use it to improve bone or tendon repair.

    Placentas undergo significant processing before they can be used in biomaterials.
    Kolliopoulos et al./Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, CC BY-SA

    Moreover, placentas contain stem cells that can also be useful for medicine. These cells are able to turn into various other types of cells of your body. This can be particularly helpful for repairing organs that are difficult to directly harvest cells from, such as the heart, liver and nerves. For example, placental stem cells can be added to an injured heart and become heart cells themselves to aid in repair.

    Researchers have also used stem cells from the placenta and the umbilical cord for applications such as stem cell transplantation to treat disease and injury. Studies have found that placenta-derived stem cells transplanted into rats could reverse Parkinson’s and nerve death. Stem cells from the placenta can also serve as a more promising source of cells for cell transplantation therapies compared with stem cells from fat and bone marrow.

    On your skin, not in your stomach

    So placentas do have some clear health benefits. But why are they more useful as a biomaterial bandage than as a pill or food, taste considerations aside?

    Unlike placenta products that are ingested – pills, dried jerky or raw placenta – biomaterials have undergone rigorous testing to ensure they are safe and effective. They are processed and handled in a controlled laboratory environment and often sterilized to ensure no bacteria or other pathogens can enter the patient. The Food and Drug Administration has approved several placenta-based biomaterials for use in the clinic, including to treat diabetic foot wounds, surgical wounds and tissue replacement.

    In contrast, placentas and placenta products eaten at home may not receive proper treatment to kill the many harmful pathogens that may be present during transport. The processing to turn placentas into something ingestible may also damage their beneficial components, leading to increased health risks and reduced benefits. No ingested placenta products have received FDA approval to date.

    Eating placentas won’t make you any healthier. But science says applying a lab-processed, placenta-based biomaterial to a recent wound might speed up healing and result in smoother, scar-free skin.

    Marley Dewey receives funding from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.

    – ref. Placenta bandages have far more health benefits than risky placenta pills − a bioengineer explains – https://theconversation.com/placenta-bandages-have-far-more-health-benefits-than-risky-placenta-pills-a-bioengineer-explains-256075

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: CCUS explained: experts answer your questions

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    CCUS explained: experts answer your questions

    Got a question about Carbon Capture, Usage, and Storage (CCUS) and the technology involved? Experts answer some of the most common questions here.

    How does CCUS work? 

    Olivia Powis, CEO at the Carbon Capture and Storage Association, says:  

    Carbon Capture, Usage, and Storage (CCUS) is essential for reducing emissions from heavy industries. It can also be used to generate low-carbon power by gas power stations with carbon capture and storage as well as enabling hydrogen power. These sources of power are important for when the sun isn’t shining, and the wind isn’t blowing.

    This low carbon technology captures carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from industrial facilities, compresses it, and then transports it by pipeline or ship for utilisation or safe and permanent storage deep under the seabed, preventing the CO2 from entering the atmosphere. The CO2 is stored in porous rocks – in old oil fields, gas fields, or saline formation – that act like a sponge and are covered by layers of trapping mechanisms such as impermeable ‘caprock’ – ensuring safe and permanent storage. The CO2 is then monitored to make sure that its stored securely.

    Is CCUS a proven technology? 

    Professor Stuart Haszeldine, Professor of Carbon Capture and Storage at University of Edinburgh, says: 

    Yes, carbon capture and storage has been operating successfully and safely since 1996 at the Sleipner storage site in the North Sea, halfway between Aberdeen and Bergen. A similar project has been developed at Snøhvit offshore in Norway. Experience gained in those operations has led to the Northern Lights project, situated north of Bergen which offers secure CO2 storage commercially to European industries.

    Is CCUS safe? 

    Professor Niall Mac Dowell, Professor in Energy Systems Engineering at Imperial College London, says: 

    Yes, various technical components of the carbon capture, utilisation, transport, and storage value chain have all been extensively deployed in other contexts around the world for decades. In the UK, not only can existing Health and Safety legislation effectively regulate the safety of CCUS, but we are also fortunate to have a wealth of experience in the offshore industry, which will be used to safely store the CO2 several kilometres below the seabed, in formations similar to those that have trapped natural gas for millennia.

    Does CCUS help us tackle climate change? 

    Chris Stark, former CEO at the Climate Change Committee and Head of Mission Control for Clean Power 2030 at the Department of Energy Security & Net Zero, says:

    CCUS provides the lowest cost pathway to reaching net zero which is why the independent Climate Change Committee has declared it a ‘necessity, not an option.’ CCUS gives a range of options to decarbonise that would otherwise not be possible, and it minimises the climate warming emissions released to the atmosphere on our journey to net zero. It will be an important part of our industrial future.

    With an increase in renewable energy, why do we need CCUS? 

    Louise Stott, Deputy Director for Policy at Energy UK, says:

    To help secure our energy supply, we need low-carbon power that is available at all times of the day and in all weathers. Gas-fired power stations with CCUS, used alongside all other forms of low-carbon energy generation, will be able to provide flexible power on the system. Beyond power generation, CCUS will also play an important role in the decarbonisation of heavy industry. There are certain industrial processes, such as cement production, which will only be able to decarbonise through technologies like carbon capture.

    Is CCUS too expensive? 

    Mathilde Fajardy, Energy Analyst at the International Energy Agency, says: 

    CCUS technologies are critical to put energy systems around the world on a sustainable path. The cost of a project depends heavily on the source of the CO2 captured, the distance and mode used to transport it, as well as where and how it is stored. The cost of CCUS also needs to be considered against alternative decarbonisation options – in some cases, CCUS may be the only option available today.

    Is there enough space to safely store carbon captured by CCUS projects? 

    Stuart Payne, CEO at the North Sea Transition Authority, says: 

    The North Sea has the potential to store up to 78 GT of CO2 in a combination of depleted oil and gas reservoirs and natural saline aquifers. That could be enough capacity on the UK Continental Shelf to store centuries worth of UK emissions. In fact, we believe we have an exceptional case for the UK to become a carbon storage centre for the world.

    Further information

    Read more about UK carbon capture, usage and storage.

    Updates to this page

    Published 16 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 16 May 2025 Departmental update Marking 30 years of progress – engaging the health sector to tackle violence against women and girls

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The health sector is increasingly engaged in responding to and mitigating violence against women as a public health problem that has serious health consequences for women and their children. 

    Thirty years since the landmark Beijing Platform for Action on Women provided a roadmap toward equality and empowerment for women, more than 160 countries have at least one national survey on prevalence of violence against women. This allows monitoring of progress on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5.2, to eliminate all forms of violence. 

    In 2016, the World Health Assembly endorsed the WHO Global Plan of Action to strengthen the health system, within a multisectoral response, in addressing interpersonal violence against women and girls and children. The plan emphasizes a public health approach, integration of violence prevention and response into essential health services, and strengthening linkages with multisectoral efforts on gender equality, human rights and sustainable development. 

    This plan aimed to support Member States to operationalize Resolution WHA67.15 (2014), Strengthening the role of the health system in addressing violence, in particular against women and girls, and against children, in four areas:  

    • strengthening leadership and governance of the health sector through laws, policies and protocols;  
    • strengthening comprehensive service delivery and capacities of the health sector;  
    • fostering evidence-based prevention; and  
    • improving monitoring, surveillance and evidence to end violence against women.  

    A newly released Violence against Women in Health Policies Database tracks progress made by countries towards commitments made in this global plan. Data from 200 countries across 48 indicators shows increasing integration of the prevention of and response to violence against women and girls in national health strategies and policies. More countries are training health workers in survivor-centred clinical care for intimate partner violence and/or sexual violence and adopting standardized protocols, while access to and quality of quality care for survivors is improving.   

    For example, to respond to the Ukrainian refugees experiencing sexual violence during the conflict, WHO guidance and training materials have been translated into Polish. Capacity strengthening of health professionals has been institutionalized to serve the refugee and local populations through the national chamber of nurses and midwives and WHO training integrated into the curricula of four universities. In 2024, almost 500 health workers were trained, and a task force led by a Polish feminist NGO – Feminoteka is monitoring progress on coverage and quality of clinical management of rape and intimate partner violence services.   

    To date in 2025, WHO and the UN’s Special Programme in Human Reproduction (HRP) have finalized and published several key resources that enhance the capacity of health systems to respond to violence in both emergency and non-emergency settings.  

    Caring for women subjected to violence: online facilitated training for health workers offers a virtual, interactive curriculum that equips health providers to deliver empathetic, first-line support to women experiencing violence, using the WHO-endorsed LIVES approach. Adapted from in-person trainings, it is designed for use in emergencies or low-resource settings where in-person training is not feasible, to help ensure continuity of care and survivor-centred response.  

    These training tools are essential to build a sustainable and integrated national health systems response that addresses violence against women as a public health issue

    Avni Amin / Unit Head of Rights and Equality across the Life Course at WHO and HRP

    Meanwhile, the Clinical management of rape and intimate partner violence in emergencies: a training toolkit offers tools to strengthen capacities of health workers to deliver clinical care to survivors. The toolkit addresses the unique challenges of humanitarian contexts by offering flexible, modular training aligned with WHO guidelines and the minimum initial service package for sexual and reproductive health. 

    “These training tools are essential to build a sustainable and integrated national health systems response that addresses violence against women as a public health issue,” says Avni Amin, Unit Head of Rights and Equality across the Life Course at WHO and HRP. “They help translate global commitments into real-world action by making frontline health services more survivor-centred and of higher quality, no matter the context.”  

    Research that fuels impact in country 

    As highlighted in the Global Plan, research is key to informing evidence-driven programming. Preliminary results from a recently completed study showed promising results from a Strengthening Women’s Agency in Pregnancy programme, an empowerment counselling intervention with pregnant Congolese women and girls attending antenatal care in a hospital in Nyarugusu refugee camp in Kigoma, Tanzania. The intervention showed high acceptability with 82% of women enrolled in the study returning for more than the minimum number of sessions. It also showed improved maternal mental health as a result of the intervention, with participants experiencing a 44% reduced likelihood in moderate-to-severe depression compared to the control group, 6 months after receiving the intervention.  

    By training over 10 000 health workers across 29 fragile and humanitarian settings, training packages operationalize WHO and HRP’s commitment to building capacity in line with SDG 5.2 as well as WHO’s commitment to ensuring universal health coverage. They ensure that care for survivors is embedded in both routine and emergency health responses, and exemplify how WHO and HRP translate global policy commitments into practice at the country level, guided by strong research.  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 16 May 2025 Departmental update Neglected tropical diseases centre-stage at the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Sunday 18 May 2025 10:30−13:30
     
    Restaurant Vieux-Bois, Avenue de la Paix 12    		 Snakebite envenoming : reaching our 2030 targets
     
    Host: Ministry of Health, Kenya    		 The objective of this meeting is to build visibility for snakebite on the global health agenda
     
    Sunday 18 May 2025
    17:30−19:30
     
    Restaurant Vieux-Bois, Avenue de la Paix 12
     
         		 Shared progress: how collaborative philanthropy can accelerate country-led health goals
     
    Host: Mohammed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity    		 Under the theme Shared Progress: How Collaborative Philanthropy Can Accelerate Country-led Health Goals, the reception will convene country representatives; global health leaders; philanthropic organizations; and multilaterals to discuss how countries and donors can work collaboratively to forge new pathways for global health progress. 
    Monday 19 May 2025
    13:00−14:30
     
    Centre d’Accueil de la Genève Internationale (CAGI), La Pastorale, Route de Ferney 106    		 Protecting Progress: Integration for Infectious Disease Elimination in a Shifting Geopolitical Landscape
     
    Host: Global Institute for Disease Elimination (GLIDE)    		 The global health landscape is undergoing tectonic shifts, driven largely by the recent significant changes in traditional donor priorities. This, compounded by ongoing challenges of climate change and humanitarian crises threatens to erode decades of progress in eliminating preventable infectious diseases such as malaria, polio, and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Given this new reality, integration—both across disease programs and within broader health and development efforts—has never been more urgent.
    Tuesday 20 May 2025
    08:00−10:00
     
    Hôtel Royal, Rue de Lausanne 41    		 Health financing : what now ? What next? Insights from malaria, dengue & NTDs
     
    Hosts: Health Finance Coalition (HFC); Malaria No More; and the International Society for Neglected Tropical Diseases (ISNTD)    		 The world is witnessing major shifts in the global health landscape. Among these, the decrease in donor funding for climate-sensitive infectious and tropical diseases on the one hand, and the explosive growth of health threats such as arboviruses including dengue, as well as the persistent threat of malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) on communities worldwide are likely to be among the most defining factors of future health policy.
    Tuesday 20 May 2025 17:00−19:00
     
    Pavillon Gallatin, Domaine de Penthes, Route de Pregny 26    		 5 Billion Mectizan Treatments Donated and Counting
     
    Hosts: Mectizan Donation Program, Task Force for Global Health    		 The event will celebrate the tremendous progress made towards the elimination of onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis, notably the 5 billion ivermectin (Mectizan) treatments that have been donated. Since 1987 MSD and the Mectizan Donation Program have provided Mectizan to eliminate onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis worldwide.
    Tuesday 20 May 2025 18:00−20:00
     
    Hôtel Président Wilson, Quai Wilson 47    		 Skin diseases as a global public health priority
     
    Hosts: International Alliance of Dermatology Patient Organizations (GlobalSkin), International League of Dermatology Societies (ILDS), Anesvad Foundation, Health Diplomacy Alliance    		 The event will discuss the importance of addressing skin diseases as a public health problem, and will provide critical discussions on the groundbreaking WHA resolution, “Skin Diseases as a Global Health Priority”.
    Wednesday 21 May 2025
    08:00−09:30
     
    Restaurant Vieux-Bois, Avenue de la Paix 12
         		 Strengthening Strategic Partnerships to fight VBDs, NTDs, and Emerging Infectious Diseases
     
    Hosts: Japan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Assoc. (JPMA), Permanent Mission of Japan, IFPMA    		 As the field of global health undergoes significant transformation, we aim to raise global awareness of the challenges and solutions related to infectious diseases such as VBDs, NTDs, and emerging infectious diseases that have long affected LMICs. As part of this effort, we would like to overview the progress made and the challenges we face, as well as showcase strategic initiatives/contributions in this field by governments, private sector and international organizations
    Wednesday 21 May 2025
    09:00−13:30
     
    Campus Biotech Innovation Park, Avenue de Sécheron 15    		 Economics of elimination and NTDs
     
    Host: Global Institute for Disease Elimination (GLIDE)    		 The event will initiate an International Economics Working Group (IEWG) dialogue, share current work, and explore collaboration on the economics of elimination and neglected tropical diseases.
    Wednesday 21 May 2025
    12:00−15:00
     
    Geneva Press Club,
    Domaine de Penthes,
    Chemin de l’Impératrice 18    		 Accelerating NTD elimination through country-driven efforts and cross-border collaboration
     
    Hosts: Global Onchocerciasis Network for Elimination (GONE), African Union, END Fund, DNDi
     
    Member State Leadership: Cameroon, Chad, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda    		 The purpose of the meeting is to share progress and celebrate successes of NTD elimination milestones, share cross-border collaboration examples, celebrate the endorsement of cross-border agreements and a Call for Action which will inspire and further enhance cross-border and multi-disease collaboration to accelerate progress towards global disease elimination targets. Ministers of Health of Chad, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan and Uganda will sign a MoU to End VL in Africa. The event will stress the importance of country ownership and strategies to reach NTD public health target and to mitigate the risk of losing the gains made over the past decades, highlighting the opportunity of the implementation of the proposed resolution on skin diseases at WHA78. A signature of an MoU for Visceral Leishmaniasis in East African countries will take place during the ceremony.
    Wednesday 21 May 2025 18:00−20:00
     
    Hõtel Royal, Rue de Lausanne 41    		 Roundtable dinner: The Future of Funding for NTDs
     
    Hosts: The END Fund, DEVEX    		 The event will be hosted by Kate Warren EVP and Executive Editor, Devex and Dr Solomon Zewdu, CEO, The END Fund. The roundtable dinner will bring together a select group of 10–12 senior stakeholders from the private sector, philanthropy, global health, policy and international financing organizations to engage in meaningful dialogue , enabling key decision-makers to share insights, align priorities and identify actions to accelerate progress in combating NTDs. Roundtable dinner: The Future of Funding for NTDS
    Wednesday 21 May 2025 18:30−19:30
     
    Colladon Parc Restaurant,
    Chemin Colladon 5,
    Petit-Saconnex    		 Reception for countries endemic for dracunculiasis (Guinea-worm disease) and in pre-certification Guinea
     
    Hosts: Ministry of Health, Chad and The Carter Center    		 The reception will be an occasion to celebrate the tremendous progress toward eradication, rally behind the WHA Resolution being voted on, reflect on commitments made in the Abu Dhabi Declaration and N’Djamena Commitment, and look ahead to what remains to achieve Guinea worm eradication by the year 2030.
    Wednesday 21 May 2025 18:30−20:30
     
    The International Red Cross & Red Crescent Museum, Geneva, Avenue de la Paix 17    		 “A seat at the table” – art installation
     
    Hosts: Gilead Sciences, Harvard Medical School Center for Primary Care Program in Global Primary Health Care, International Alliance of Patient Organizations (IAPO) and UNAIDS    		 Frontline AIDS in collaboration with the Female Genital Schistosomiasis Integration Group (FIG), Education as a Vaccine, Alliance for Public Health, and LVCT Health will contribute artwork to this important event. It will feature stories and an art installation that bring the importance of people-centered care into focus— addressing the imbalance of power in which people with lived experience of disease are too often left out of health system decision-making.
    Wednesday 21 May 2025 18:30−21:00
     
    Hôtel Mandarin Oriental,
    Quai Turrettini 1    		 Ministerial summit: REACH network
     
    Hosts: Nigeria, REACH Network (Chairs: Minister Muhammad Ali Pate [Nigeria] and Professor Samba Sow [former Minister of Health, Mali])    		 The event is convened to reinforce ministerial commitment from existing REACH countries and expand the network’s impact by engaging potential new member countries. It will emphasize integrated, equitable and evidence-driven child survival strategies, particularly mass drug administration of azithromycin
    Thursday 22 May 2025
    08:00−10:00
     
    Hôtel Président Wilson,
    Quai Wilson 47    		 Surveillance and innovation for dengue & arboviruses: international unity to avert future health emergencies
     
    Host: the International Society for Neglected Tropical Diseases    		 The event will focus on updates on the progression of the arboviral threat worldwide (dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, Oropouche fever), will provide a platform for Member States to make statements on arboviruses experiences and collaborative surveillance strategies, will enable discussions among participants, will serve as a forum for exchange of best practices and networking among participants
    Thursday 22 May 2025
    12:00−14:00
     
    Hôtel Intercontinental,
    Chemin du Petit-Saconnex 7−9    		 Innovation Meets Unity: Advancing Global Health Solutions for Africa
     
    Host: Merck KGaA, Circle Diplomatique Genève    		 Global health leadership discussion to discuss diminished engagement with multilateral institutions which has resulted in weakened health systems in Africa and diminished international support

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida Pharmacy Pleads Guilty to Health Care Fraud and Agrees to Pay More Than $1 Million Settlement

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – On May 13, 2025, a Florida-based pharmacy, OHM Pharmacy Services, aka “Benzer,” aka “Auburndale,” pleaded guilty to one count of health care fraud and was sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to pay restitution of $82,000. As part of the global resolution, Benzer also agreed to pay $1,018,000 to resolve False Claims Act violations.

    According to OHM’s admissions in the global resolution of criminal charges and civil claims, the pharmacy dispensed Evzio, one of several naloxone products on the market indicated for use on an emergent basis in the case of opioid overdose. Due to Evzio’s high price, insurers (including Medicare Part D plans) frequently required that health care providers submit prior authorization requests before they approved coverage. OHM completed prior authorization forms in place of prescribing physicians, and in some instances OHM personnel signed the prior authorization forms without the physician’s authorization and submitted information to insurers that made it appear as though a physician, and not OHM, was submitting the information. Moreover, OHM also submitted prior authorization requests to insurers, including Medicare Part D plans, that contained false information. For example, OHM staff filled out and submitted dozens of Evzio prior authorization request forms that falsely asserted that patients had previously tried and failed to successfully use Narcan or naloxone.  

    In connection with the resolution, Benzer entered into an integrity agreement (IA) with the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). The IA requires, among other things, that Benzer implement measures to ensure that its submission of claims for pharmaceutical products complies with applicable law relating to prior authorizations.  

    The civil settlement concludes the government’s resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by a former employee of kaleo Inc., Evzio’s manufacturer. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Socol v. Benzer Pharmacy Holding, LLC, et al., No. 18-cv-10050-RGS (D. Mass.). As part of the civil resolution, the whistleblower will receive $285,040 of the civil settlement amount.  

    In 2021, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced settlements with kaléo Inc. for $12.7 million and with other pharmacies for $1 million relating to their submission of false claims for Evzio. In 2022, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced a $1.31 million deferred prosecution agreement and civil settlement with another pharmacy.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Kim Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge, Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General; the Department of Defense Criminal Investigative Service; Office of Personnel Management, Office of Inspector General; and the U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General made the announcement.

    The matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Abraham R. George, Chief of the Civil Division, Assistant U.S. Attorney Mackenzie A. Queenin, Chief of the Health Care Fraud Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren A. Graber, Deputy Chief of the Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Nutanix Announces Updates to its Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New Board Member Eric K. Brandt Brings Extensive Leadership and Finance Experience to Nutanix Board

    David Humphrey Resigns from Nutanix Board

    SAN JOSE, Calif., May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nutanix (NASDAQ: NTNX), a leader in hybrid multicloud computing, announced today that it has added Eric K. Brandt to its board of directors, effective May 15, 2025.

    “Eric brings deep expertise in both CEO and CFO roles across a variety of industries. His long-term service on boards of public companies also gives him a richness of experience from which Nutanix is sure to benefit,” said Virginia Gambale, Chair of the Board at Nutanix. “I look forward to serving with him together on the Nutanix board as the company continues to focus on driving sustainable, profitable growth while providing customers with a single platform for running applications and managing data, anywhere.”

    Brandt is a seasoned executive and board director with more than 30 years of global experience spanning finance, operations, and corporate governance. He served as Chief Financial Officer of Broadcom Corporation from 2007 until it was acquired by Avago Technologies Limited in 2016, where he played a pivotal role in the company’s growth into one of the world’s largest semiconductor firms. Prior to that, he held senior executive positions, including President and CEO of Avanir Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Chief Financial Officer of Allergan, Inc. Brandt currently serves on the boards of Gen Digital Inc., Lam Research Corporation, The Macerich Company, and Option Care Health, Inc. He previously served on the boards of Altaba Inc. and DENTSPLY SIRONA Inc., among others. He holds a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School.

    Additionally, David Humphrey resigned from Nutanix’s board of directors, effective May 15, 2025. Humphrey, a Partner at Bain Capital, joined the Nutanix Board as part of Bain Capital’s $750 million investment in September 2020. Following Humphrey’s resignation, Max de Groen, another Partner at Bain Capital, will continue to serve as a member of Nutanix’s board of directors.

    “We thank David for the constructive engagement, guidance and expertise that he brought to the board during a period of significant transformation and growth for Nutanix,” said Gambale. “We are grateful for his valuable contributions and the investment of service he has made over the past four years.”

    “Since Bain Capital’s investment in September 2020, Nutanix has grown substantially, evolved into a hybrid multicloud leader, and scaled its profits and cash flows significantly. We are impressed by the company’s performance and believe it has significant opportunity ahead as well,” said Humphrey. “Bain Capital remains a significant stockholder of Nutanix and continues to value its partnership with Nutanix,” added de Groen. “I look forward to my continued service on the Nutanix Board.”

    About Nutanix

    Nutanix is a global leader in cloud software, offering organizations a single platform for running applications and managing data, anywhere. With Nutanix, companies can reduce complexity and simplify operations, freeing them to focus on their business outcomes. Building on its legacy as the pioneer of hyperconverged infrastructure, Nutanix is trusted by companies worldwide to power hybrid multicloud environments consistently, simply, and cost-effectively. Learn more at www.nutanix.com or follow us on social media @nutanix.

    © 2025 Nutanix, Inc. All rights reserved. Nutanix, the Nutanix logo, and all Nutanix product and service names mentioned herein are registered trademarks or unregistered trademarks of Nutanix, Inc. (“Nutanix”) in the United States and other countries. All other brand names or marks mentioned herein are for identification purposes only and may be the trademarks of their respective holder(s). This press release is for informational purposes only and nothing herein constitutes a warranty or other binding commitment by Nutanix. This release contains express and implied forward-looking statements. Such statements are not historical facts and are instead based on Nutanix’s current expectations, estimates and beliefs. The accuracy of such statements involves risks and uncertainties and depends upon future events, including those that may be beyond Nutanix’s control, and actual results may differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied by such statements. Any forward-looking statements included herein speak only as of the date hereof and, except as required by law, Nutanix assumes no obligation to update or otherwise revise any of such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

    Investor Contact:

    Richard Valera
    ir@nutanix.com

    Media Contact: Jennifer Massaro
    pr@nutanix.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6fcb69a5-92eb-43fd-b900-5322ebf501cc

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “In the next 20 years we will stop aging”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Jose Luis Cordeiro

    © Higher School of Economics

    Leading Russian and Western scientists gathered at the anniversary XXV Yasin (April) International Scientific Conference. One of the guests at the special foresight session was Doctor of Philosophy Jose Luis Cordeiro, member of the World Academy of Art and Science, chairman of the Venezuelan node of the Millennium Project, former professor at MIPT and HSE, author of the book Death Must Die.

    — Dear Jose Luis, we are glad that you accepted our invitation to participate in the foresight session dedicated to the future of AI. This is not your first visit to HSE. How would you rate your experience of cooperation with our university?

    — I am always happy to return to HSE, which, by the way, many call the Russian Harvard, because I sincerely believe that it is one of the best universities in Russia, in Europe and in the world. All research and all academic work here is conducted at the highest level. And so I am inspired and happy to collaborate in any way possible.

    — Which areas of research and topics covered during the foresight session seem most relevant today?

    — I am interested in following the path from narrow AI to general AI and going even further, looking into the area of artificial superintelligence. Because this will be a level of AI that surpasses human in everything. I think this is inevitable and we need to be prepared for it.

    — Artificial intelligence causes both fear and excitement in society. What does this new technology generate more — threats or opportunities?

    — Every technology can be used for good and for bad, starting with one of the first human technologies, fire, which was probably developed by humans about half a million years ago. Obviously, it could be used for many good things, like cooking, heating, and so on. But it could also be used to kill, destroy, and burn cities. Same with nuclear energy. It can be used to make electricity or to make nuclear weapons. So all technologies can be used for good or for bad. But again, in general, technologies are used for good purposes. They are developed by people for people in cooperation with other people. So I am actually very inspired by the incredible capabilities of artificial intelligence.

    Maybe I’m not so afraid of AI because I’m more worried about human stupidity. Human stupidity is really my main concern! And so if we can become smarter with AI, I’ll be very happy about it.

    — Each person draws a certain image of the future, preferable, possible or undesirable, clear or vague, a certain picture where he places himself. What place does artificial intelligence occupy in your image of the future?

    — AI will be everywhere, it will assist us in everything constantly and continuously. It will be as natural as mobile phones are now, or earlier — the Internet, and even earlier — just ordinary landline phones.

    So AI will be everywhere. It is a general purpose technology, like electricity, which is everywhere today.

    — What, in your opinion, are the most important challenges facing humanity today? Have they changed much in recent years?

    — Look, there are different challenges in different historical periods. This is reasonable. Once, you know, fire was a big challenge. And a few thousand years later, nuclear weapons became a challenge. For a long time after World War II, humanity lived in fear of the constant threat of nuclear destruction. Until biochemical weapons were added to it. And now there are two challenges. But today, it seems to me, in terms of the greatest threat, environmental challenges are in the foreground. I believe that they are the main modern problem for humanity.

    But AI, like all technology, is actually more of a help than a problem. So I’m very optimistic about AI and I’m looking forward to AI finally helping us solve previous problems and challenges before it becomes a problem itself.

    — During the foresight session, some speakers criticized foresight, claiming that it is experiencing a decline in public interest because it is too old-fashioned. Do you agree with this statement?

    — I think that foresight and future studies in general, on the contrary, are becoming more and more relevant, because the world is changing faster and faster. When things, ways of life and technologies had not changed for centuries, when everything happened very slowly, then foresight was not so important. But now, when everything happens almost instantly, we need more, not less foresight.

    So no, I don’t think it’s old-fashioned. In fact, I think foresight is coming into fashion and it should become even more common in the future. Well, look, it’s like saying that mathematics is old-fashioned or physics is outdated. Well, they’re not, they’re not old-fashioned. We need mathematics, we need physics, and we need foresight. And I repeat: we need it more than ever.

    — You were one of the founders of the Millennium Project, which unites futurologists from all over the world. HSE Foresight Center is also active in futures research. In what areas do you see the greatest synergy from collaboration?

    — In many. If you remember, I already mentioned that HSE, ISSEK, Institute for Statistical Research and Economics of Knowledge. — Ed.) and the Foresight Center are at the forefront of modern scientific forecasting. They have achieved incredible success in the field of technological and scientific foresight. I like their forecasting tool for processing big data (iFORA. — Ed.). By the way, iFORA is something we could collaborate on, we could help promote it on the market, already at the international level. iFORA is just one example.

    Now, as part of the Millennium Project, we are working on developing State of the Future Indexes. We are creating indices of the future states of companies, cities, countries, industrial sectors and the world as a whole. So, since HSE is very strong in statistics, we could collaborate on state of the future indices. Choose a direction and create an index.

    Or a third example: we are assembling a navigator for Futures Research Methodologies. And a Foresight Center that develops such methodologies and has most of the foresight methods in its arsenal would be indispensable in our work.

    And finally, we conduct international Delphi surveys annually, now online surveys. And of course, we want to involve Russian scientists in our expert circle. Russia is one of those countries in the world where a lot of expertise has been collected in various technological areas, and we will be very happy to include it in our Delphi surveys.

    So, a lot, a lot of things. The future is open, and foresight and future research are the future.

    — Could you tell us about your current research interests?

    — Right now I am mainly interested in three areas. The first is space. Space is an important part of the history and future of humanity. And in the next decade we will have space colonies on the Moon and Mars. Life on other planets will radically change the attitude and view of our own tiny planet Earth. So space is very important. And of course, Russia, remaining one of the leading countries in space research, will participate in this space expansion.

    The second area that interests me is artificial intelligence and the transition to superintelligence. As soon as we create a new machine-human civilization, the world around us will change radically. For this, we will need a lot of intelligence, both natural and artificial. I really want to look into the future, in which superintelligence operates.

    And the third area of my interest is biotechnology, health and longevity. Now with new medical technologies we have the ability to increase the life expectancy of people, and soon we will be able to rejuvenate people. It seems incredible, but the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 2012 was awarded to Shinyo Yamanaka, who discovered a way to reprogram cells to change their biological age. After that, other scientists began to do this at the organ level, in 12 years we moved from cells to organs. And now many people are working on the transition from organs to whole organisms, to animals. Of course, they usually start with simpler and smaller animals, and then move on to more complex and larger ones, so that eventually we can try it on people. I believe that in the next 20 years we will stop aging. We will take control of the aging process and begin to rejuvenate people. This was the first dream of mankind – immortality. And now we are very close to making it come true thanks to biotechnology. And so I’m very excited about this. So, three areas: space, artificial intelligence and longevity.

    The interview was prepared by Sergey Sychev, leading expert of the Department of Science Statistics ISSEK HSE

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Novel approach to HIV vaccine shows early promise

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The first human clinical trials testing a new strategy to protect against HIV infections have yielded promising early results, according to two separate reports published on Thursday in Science.
     
    The trials tested “germline targeting” HIV vaccines, which aim to activate immune system B cells in their naive, or germline, state, inducing them to become specialized cells that produce broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs).
     
    By delivering a variety of HIV immunogens – typically, viral protein fragments – germline vaccines train the B cells to produce antibodies that can recognize and block a broad range of different strains of HIV from infecting healthy cells.
     
    Germline targeting requires an initial dose to prime the correct B cells, and subsequent doses to guide their maturation until they can produce effective bnAbs, the researchers reported.
     
    “Across the participants we saw an immune response that indicates that we’re on the right track,” Rogier Sanders of Amsterdam UMC, senior investigator on one of the trials, said in a statement.
     
    “We saw that we can target the cells that we need to target with atomic precision. The next step is to further stimulate these cells to secrete broadly neutralizing antibodies,” Sanders said.
     
    In a separate paper, a different team of researchers reported on two early trials that used mRNA-encoded nanoparticles produced by Moderna to successfully prime the germline B cells, although a small proportion of patients had skin reactions to the vaccines.
     
    The mRNA technology, similar to that used in Moderna’s COVID-19 shots, would allow for faster vaccine development, the study authors said.
     
    One of the trials was conducted in the United States and the other in Rwanda and South Africa. The majority of HIV patients live in Africa, but germline targeting has not previously been attempted there.
     
    The researchers said the mRNA approach appeared to work with both North American and African populations, opening the door to further testing of germline-targeting vaccines for “African populations in most need of an HIV vaccine.”
     
    EASING THERAPIES FOR SOME PROSTATE, CERVIX CANCERS
     
    Two new studies suggest that patients with certain cancers might do just as well with a shorter course of radiation or a less extensive surgery as with standard treatments.
     
    In JAMA Oncology, researchers reported that in men who require radiation after undergoing the most extensive type of surgery for prostate cancer, a form of high-dose radiation delivered in just five sessions known as stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) appears to be as safe as conventional treatment delivered daily for up to seven weeks.
     
    SBRT is a well-established treatment for prostate cancer, but its use after a radical prostatectomy has been limited due to concerns about the shifting position of the prostate bed and nearby healthy tissues.
     
    The researchers tracked 100 men treated with SBRT in the single-arm study. Two years after the treatment, outcomes and side effects were similar to what the researchers had seen in the past from patients who received the longer-course treatments.
     
    If randomized studies and longer follow-up confirm the results, “this approach could remove a major barrier to post-surgery radiation therapy,” study leader Dr. Amar Kishan of the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA said in a statement.
     
    In JAMA Network Open, a separate team of researchers reported that women with low-risk early-stage cancer of the cervix do as well after simple hysterectomy as after modified radical hysterectomy or radical hysterectomy.
     
    Among 2,636 carefully selected patients treated for stage IA2 or IB1 cervical carcinoma at accredited cancer hospitals, there was no difference in survival rates at 3 years, 5 years, 7 years or 10, or in postoperative outcomes after the three types of surgery.
     
    (Reuters)

  • Brazil confirms first outbreak of avian influenza on commercial farm

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Brazil, the world’s largest poultry exporter, confirmed its first outbreak of avian influenza on a commercial farm in a statement from the Agriculture Ministry on Friday, raising the prospect of restrictions from trade partners.
     
    The outbreak occurred in the city of Montenegro in Brazil’s southernmost state of Rio Grande do Sul, the ministry said.
     
    Brazil exported $10 billion of chicken meat in 2024, accounting for about 35% of global trade, much of it sold by BRF and JBS SA, which ship to some 150 countries.
     
    “All necessary measures to control the situation were quickly adopted, and the situation is under control and being monitored by government agencies,” said national pork and poultry group ABPA in a statement.
     
    The ministry said it was taking the necessary measures to contain and eradicate the outbreak, officially notifying the World Organization for Animal Health, Brazil’s trade partners and other interested parties.
     
    The country, which exported more than 5 million metric tons of chicken products last year, first confirmed outbreaks of the highly pathogenic avian flu among wild birds in May 2023 in at least seven states.
     
    In June of that year, Japan suspended purchases of poultry from the state of Espirito Santo, following an outbreak there on a non-commercial farm.
     
    The disease is not transmitted through the consumption of poultry meat or eggs, the farm ministry said, noting that the risk of human infection is low and mostly occurs among professionals who have contact with infected birds.
     
    “The Brazilian and world population can rest assured about the safety of inspected products, and there are no restrictions on their consumption,” the statement said.
     
    According to the ministry, the Brazilian veterinary service has been trained and equipped to deal with this disease since the first decade of the 2000s.
     
    Actions include monitoring wild birds, epidemiological surveillance in commercial and subsistence poultry farming, and constant training of technicians, it said.
     
    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Lord Mayor and Deputy announced for the year

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Councillor Kathy Watkin has been elected as Lord Mayor of Plymouth, with Councillor Chip Tofan as the new Deputy Lord Mayor for the coming year.

    • The Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Chip Tofan
    • The Lord Mayor and Consort Councillor Kathy Watkin and Alderman Dr John Mahony

    They were both elected at the Annual General Meeting this morning (Friday 16 May)

    Councillor Watkin trained and worked as a speech and language therapist before training as a solicitor.

    Kathy worked in the legal sector in two well known firms in Plymouth and as a registered sole practitioner in her own practice for 13 years prior to retirement.

    She has served on various committees including Licencing, Corporate Parenting, Mount Edgcumbe, Planning and has been the vice chair for the Health Scrutiny Committee and Health and Wellbeing Board.

    In 2023 she was elected as Deputy Lord Mayor.

    She said: “What a privilege it is to be elected as Lord Mayor, I am really looking forward to the coming year, meeting all the different communities in Plymouth and engaging with them.

    “I want to thank my fellow Councillors for choosing me as their next Lord Mayor for the year.”

    Councillor Chip Tofan was born in Iasi, Romania, graduating from Iasi Gheorghe Ashachi University, with a bachelor’s degree in engineering and now runs his own business providing consultancy services.

    Chip was first elected to Plymouth City Council in May 2022, representing Eggbuckland Ward.

    During his time as a councillor, Chip has been a member of different committees including Scrutiny, Licensing, Natural Infrastructure and the Growth Scrutiny Panel.

    Chip said: “I am so pleased to be elected as Deputy Lord Mayor and look forward to supporting Kathy over the next year in office and working together.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: OptimizeRx to Participate in Upcoming Investor Conferences

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WALTHAM, Mass., May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OptimizeRx Corp. (the “Company”) (Nasdaq: OPRX), a leading provider of healthcare technology solutions helping life sciences companies reach and engage healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patients, today announced that management will participate in the following upcoming investor conferences:

    • B. Riley Securities 25th Annual Investor Conference, Marina del Rey, May 21 – 22, 2025
    • Stifel 2025 Boston Cross Sector 1×1 Conference, Boston, June 3 – 4, 2025
    • 45th Annual William Blair Growth Stock Conference, Chicago, June 3 – 5, 2025
    • The Citizens Medical Devices and Healthcare Services Forum, Boston, June 17, 2025
    B. Riley Securities 25thAnnual Investor Conference
    Date:  Thursday, May 22, 2025
    Format: 1×1 Meetings & Fireside Chat
    Location: The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey
       
    Stifel 2025 Boston Cross Sector 1×1 Conference
    Date:  Tuesday, June 3, 2025
    Format: 1×1 Meetings
    Location: InterContinental Boston
       
    45thAnnual William Blair Growth Stock Conference
    Date:  Thursday, June 5, 2025
    Format: 1×1 Meetings
    Location: Loews Chicago Hotel
       
    The Citizens Medical Devices and Healthcare Services Forum
    Date:  Tuesday, June 17, 2025
    Format: 1×1 Meetings
    Location: Boston Harbor Hotel


    To request a meeting or for more details about the conferences please reach out to your institutional contact.

    About OptimizeRx

    OptimizeRx is a leading healthcare technology company that’s redefining how life science brands connect with patients and healthcare providers. Our platform combines innovative AI-driven tools like the Dynamic Audience Activation Platform (DAAP) and Micro-Neighborhood Targeting (MNT) to deliver timely, relevant, and hyper-local engagement. By bridging the gap between HCP and DTC strategies, we empower brands to create synchronized marketing solutions that drive faster treatment decisions and improved patient outcomes.

    Our commitment to privacy-safe, patient-centric technology ensures that every interaction is designed to make a meaningful impact, delivering life-changing therapies to the right patients at the right time. Headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, OptimizeRx partners with some of the world’s leading pharmaceutical and life sciences companies to transform the healthcare landscape and create a healthier future for all.

    OptimizeRx Contact
    Andy D’Silva, SVP Corporate Finance
    adsilva@optimizerx.com

    Investor Relations Contact
    Steven Halper
    LifeSci Advisors, LLC
    shalper@lifesciadvisors.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Medical innovation advisers meet

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau today chaired the first meeting of the Advisory Committee on Health & Medical Innovation Development.

    The advisory committee receives staunch support from the National Medical Products Administration, with Department of Drug Registration Director Yang Ting joining as official representative of the national drug regulatory authority.

    During the meeting, committee members were briefed on the progress of the establishment of the Centre for Medical Products Regulation. The preparatory office for the centre is taking forward measures with the objective of putting forward a timetable for its establishment and the roadmap towards the adoption of “primary evaluation” in the first half of this year.

    The measures include examining the need for new legislation, mapping out the strategies to reform the regulatory regime of drugs and medical devices, and advancing plans for “primary evaluation”.

    The committee members also offered advice on the proposals for establishing the Real-World Study & Application Centre.

    The centre aims to enhance access and application of health and medical databases, as well as strengthen collaboration between Hong Kong and the Mainland, particularly in integrating data generated by the use of Hong Kong-registered drugs and medical devices used in Hong Kong public hospitals in the Greater Bay Area.

    This is to achieve three major objectives: accelerating the research and development (R&D), approval and market launch of innovative medical products; leveraging data to support evidence-based decision-making; and developing Hong Kong into a leading region and global hub for real-world studies. The Government strives to establish the centre by the end of this year.

    Prof Lo said that the Government will strenuously work in line with the national objective of further reforming the medical and healthcare system and take forward the establishment of the two centres by complementing technological innovation with institutional innovation.

    “We will fully utilise the institutional advantages of ‘one country, two systems’ and Hong Kong’s professional healthcare strengths to develop the city into an international health and medical innovation hub, thereby enabling patients to benefit from the most advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies and achieving the concept of bringing the benefits of good drugs and R&D to Hong Kong.

    “At the same time, we aim to attract more local, Mainland and overseas pharmaceutical and medical device enterprises to conduct R&D and clinical trials in Hong Kong, thereby developing new quality productive forces in biomedicine and a new model for Hong Kong’s health and medical innovation development, so as to make further contributions to the overall development of the nation.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: First Genetic Counseling Professional Science Master’s Students Graduate

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    The first graduates from the University of Connecticut’s Professional Science Master’s (PSM) in genetic counseling were hooded last Tuesday. The program was ten years in the making and is the first such accredited program at a public university in New England.

    “Watching our first cohort graduate today was nothing short of incredible,” says program director and UConn Health pediatric genetics counselor Maria Gyure. “These graduates didn’t just complete a program – they helped build it. I couldn’t be prouder to send them out into the world as the next generation of genetic counselors. We have no doubt they will serve as exemplary ambassadors for our program and make meaningful contributions to the communities they serve.”

    From left to right: Samantha Wesoly, Lila Aiyar, Kathryn Cavanna, Heather Gaddy, Natalie Cartwright, Mariangelie Beaudry, Karina Mancini, Stephanie Auger, Matthew Ruegg, and Maria Gyure (Rachel O’Neill/UConn Photo)

    The two-year program is uniquely positioned to give students broad experience in both research and clinical genetics. The Genetic Counseling PSM is housed under the auspices of the Institute for Systems Genomics (ISG). The ISG includes researchers and clinicians at UConn Health, Connecticut Children’s, and The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine. Those relationships, along with others, allow students to participate in a series of 10-week fieldwork rotations throughout their training. Students are placed in clinical rotations in diverse areas, including prenatal, pediatric, cancer, cardiovascular, and metabolic genetic counseling, as well as a laboratory rotation. An enrichment rotation gives students the opportunity to tailor a fieldwork experience aligned with their individual interests, in specialty clinics, industry, and advocacy.

    They are also required to take part in a genetic research project beginning in the second semester. This graduating class focused on areas including forensic genetic genealogy, the human right to health, barriers to newborn genomic research, underrepresented populations in rare disease research, among others.

    “The graduating class of 2025 represents a remarkable achievement, not only for the outstanding students in the program, but for the leadership and faculty that have made this program possible,” says ISG director Rachel O’Neill.

    UConn’s tuition is generally more affordable than the private university genetic counseling programs elsewhere in the region, making it more accessible for potential students. Interested potential students are encouraged to look at the program’s homepage as applications open in the fall.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Vice Premier of the State Council of China to attend the 78th session of the World Health Assembly, visit Switzerland and Belarus

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, May 16 (Xinhua) — Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong will attend the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva from May 18 to 23 and visit Switzerland, then travel to Belarus to hold the sixth meeting of the China-Belarus Intergovernmental Cooperation Committee, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said on Friday.

    As noted by the representative of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Liu Guozhong, who is also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, will make the trips at the invitation of the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, as well as the governments of Switzerland and Belarus. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Motsoaledi: SA’s HIV programme ‘not collapsing’ following US aid cuts

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has refuted claims that the country’s HIV/AIDS programme is collapsing, following the withdrawal of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

    Motsoaledi stressed that the State is taking decisive steps to maintain HIV treatment and prevention programmes.

    This is after the withdrawal of the funding to key health initiatives, including PEPFAR, which was established by former President George W Bush in 2003 and continued under various administrations.

    The Minister noted a R7.9 billion loss from PEPFAR from the R46.8 billion spent on the HIV/AIDS programmes annually, with 5.9 million people on antiretrovirals (ARVs).

    “It is inconceivable that out of R46.8 billion spent by the country on the HIV/AIDS programme, the withdrawal of R7.9 billion by [United States] President [Donald] Trump will immediately lead to a collapse of the entire programme.”

    Yesterday, Reuters reported that testing and monitoring of HIV patients across South Africa have fallen since the United States cut aid that funded health workers and clinics, with pregnant women, infants, and youth the most affected.

    However, according to the Minister, since the PEPFAR cuts, government has launched a comprehensive strategy to bridge the funding gap and continue critical healthcare services.

    Government has since established weekly provincial check-in meetings to verify and track HIV treatment progress.

    They have also reached half a million people through coordinated efforts with civil society and secured alternative funding sources, including support of R1 billion from the Global Fund.

    According to the Minister, they have also conducted provincial road shows to engage local healthcare workers, AIDS councils, and community stakeholders.

    “It’s wrong to say the campaign of the HIV/AIDS programme in South Africa is collapsing, because it’s not. The fact that we’ve picked up this plan … shows that we know that something can go wrong.

    “So, if viral load testing has dropped, does it mean the collapse of the campaign by any stretch of imagination? No. We expected that some of these problems would occur, but we are sitting with them every day. But simply because a problem is occurring, to go and announce that the HIV programme has collapsed is wrong.”

    Motsoaledi also addressed the closure of 12 specialised clinics funded by the PEPFAR, which has led to the transfer of 63 000 patient files to public health facilities.

    However, despite this, he mentioned government has already trained over 1 000 clinicians and over 2 300 non-clinicians in seven provinces.

    According to Motsoaledi, the country continues to maintain a stable supply of antiretroviral medications, with 90% procured through government fiscal resources and 10% from donors.

    “I would also like to believe that every single South African from all walks of life has a wish and a desire to end the scourge of HIV and AIDS as a public health threat at least by 2030.

    “But fighting each other, denigrating each other, pointing fingers, reporting and spreading disinformation about the status of the campaign is definitely not a way in the aftermath of President Trump’s decision, and it is certainly not a way to end the scourge of HIV and AIDS.”

    Motsoaledi said the State was actively seeking support from international partners, including meetings with organisations like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the French Development Agency.

    “This is a time to come together, unite, and fight this as one strong unit.”

    The Minister highlighted government’s continued commitment to combating HIV, stressing the significant achievements over the past decade.

    Additionally, he stated that the government’s commitment to combating HIV remains strong, with significant achievements.

    Life expectancy has increased from 54.7 years in 2010 to 66.5 years in 2024, while maternal mortality has decreased from 249 to 86 per 100 000 live births, and the number of HIV-positive babies has dropped from 70 000 in 2004 to just 643 in 2025. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FDA Advances Robust, Transparent Post-Market Chemical Review Program to Keep Food Supply Safe and Healthy

    Source: US Food and Drug Administration

    For Immediate Release:
    May 15, 2025

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today is taking a major step to increase transparency and ensure the safety of chemicals in our food. The agency is launching a stronger, more systematic review process for food chemicals already on the market—especially those that concern consumers most.
    “No parent should ever worry about what’s in their child’s food,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “We’re taking decisive action and using every authority we have to clean up the food supply and protect American families.”
    Under the leadership of Secretary Kennedy and FDA Commissioner Martin A. Makary, M.D., M.P.H., the FDA will roll out several key actions over the coming months:

    A modernized, evidence-based prioritization scheme for reviewing existing chemicals. A draft will be released for public comment soon.
    A final, systematic post-market review process shaped by stakeholder input.
    An updated list of chemicals under review, including BHT, BHA, and ADA. The FDA will also take steps to expedite its review of chemicals currently under review like phthalates, propylparaben, and titanium dioxide. FDA will continue to share information about the status of this work on its public website as part the agency’s push for greater transparency.

    Until now, the FDA has conducted post-market reviews on a case-by-case basis, often in response to citizen petitions or new scientific evidence. This new framework will be proactive, science-based, and built for long-term impact. Americans are demanding more transparency and accountability around food safety and the FDA is doing just that.
    “We are prioritizing our resources and leveraging gold standard science to create, for the first time, a systematic post-market review program that consumers can trust and rely on,” said FDA Commissioner Martin A. Makary, M.D., M.P.H. “Only by improving the safety and transparency of the food supply and ensuring consumers can make healthful food choices will we overcome the long-standing trajectory of chronic diseases.”
    This post-market review effort is part of a larger initiative to improve food chemical oversight. Last month, the FDA announced plans to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the U.S. food supply. Earlier this year, the agency also began exploring rulemaking to eliminate the process that allows companies to self-affirm substances as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) without FDA oversight.

    Consumer:888-INFO-FDA

    ###

    Boilerplate

    The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and for regulating tobacco products.

    Inquiries

    Consumer:
    888-INFO-FDA

    Content current as of:
    05/15/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom proclaims Small Business Month 2025

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 15, 2025

    Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 2025 as “Small Business Month.”

    The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below:

    PROCLAMATION

    California’s more than 4.2 million small businesses – the most of any state – embody the entrepreneurial spirit that drives the economy of the Golden State. Small businesses and entrepreneurs accelerate economic growth and mobility in California, building wealth, innovating to solve global problems, launching future growth industries, and supporting local communities.

    California’s small businesses account for more than 99.9% of total businesses in the state and employ nearly half of the state’s private sector workforce. Our state leads the nation in business startups, and our businesses received more than 55% of the nation’s venture capital in 2024.

    California businesses produce more patents per capita and conduct more research and development than any other state in the nation. Our state leads the nation in high-tech industries, agriculture, and manufacturing output in the U.S. We exceed the national rate of manufacturing output by 83% since the late 1990s. Our manufacturing firms have created new industries and supply the world with manufactured goods spanning aerospace, computers, electronics, and zero-emission vehicles.

    The state is committed to nurturing small businesses. AB 2019 codified the state’s procurement spending goal of 25% to small businesses, while the Small Business Technical Assistance Program helps businesses and entrepreneurs start, grow, and become more resilient. Through the state’s Accelerate California Inclusive Innovation Hubs, we’re working to expand and diversify the innovation economy by improving access to resources in underserved communities, supporting emerging tech sectors, and catalyzing the creation of high-quality jobs in every corner of the state.

    California’s economy – the fourth largest in the world – is not confined to our borders. More than 60,000 small businesses in California export to countries around the world. For our economy to maintain its strength, we must ensure that all Californians – no matter who they are or where they come from – can pursue their dreams to start, manage, and grow resilient businesses in the Golden State. To protect our small businesses, California is acting to stop unlawful tariffs that are hurting American businesses and families.

    Our small businesses are global leaders in innovation and economic competitiveness and have helped make our economy the envy of the world. This month, we recognize the tremendous contributions of our small businesses, as well as the importance of our ongoing work to support their success and make the California Dream accessible to all.

    NOW THEREFORE I, GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim May 2025 as “Small Business Month.”

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 15th day of May 2025.

    GAVIN NEWSOM
    Governor of California

    ATTEST:
    SHIRLEY N. WEBER, Ph.D.
    Secretary of State

    Recent news

    May 15, 2025

    News Sacramento, California — Governor Gavin Newsom today condemned U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for calling on the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) to conduct a “complete review” of mifepristone — the safe, effective, and…

    May 14, 2025

    News “We’re done with barriers. Let’s get this built.” What you need to know: Governor Newsom’s proposed budget includes proposals to streamline permitting and accelerate development  —- clearing the path for more housing and economic opportunity.  SACRAMENTO –…

    May 14, 2025

    News Tax cut for military retireesUniversal pre-kindergarten for all Expanded before school, after school, & summer schoolFree school meals for all kids Boosting literacy & readingBuilding more housing, ASAPMore water for CaliforniansLowering drug…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke Announces State of Hawaiʻi Apostille Application Now Available in 12 Languages 

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke Announces State of Hawaiʻi Apostille Application Now Available in 12 Languages 

    Lt. Governor Luke with translated apostille applications. (Office of the Lt. Gov.)

    HONOLULU — Effective May 15, 2025, the State of Hawaiʻi Apostille and Certification Application, administered by the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, is now available in 12 languages, in addition to English.

    Nearly one in four Hawaiʻi residents speaks a language other than English at home. This update reflects the state’s commitment to linguistic diversity and inclusion in public services.

    Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke led the development of the translated application as part of the office’s ongoing commitment to improving language access and modernizing state services.

    “Hawaiʻi is one of the most linguistically diverse states in the country, and government services must reflect that,” said Lt. Governor Luke. “Expanding access to the apostille application in 12 languages ensures that more residents, regardless of the language they speak, can navigate this process with clarity and confidence.”

    Under Hawaiʻi law, the Lieutenant Governor issues apostilles and certifications for official documents used abroad, including birth certificates, marriage licenses, and notarized documents. With about 9,000 applications processed annually, expanded language access marks a significant step toward more equitable and inclusive government services.

    The translated application is now available in:

    • Chinese – Simplified

    • Chuukese

    • Ilocano

    • Japanese

    • Korean

    • Marshallese

    • ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi

    • Spanish

    • Tagalog

    • Thai

    • Vietnamese

    • Visayan

    The effort aligns with the mission of the state’s Department of Health Office of Language Access (OLA), which works to address the needs of limited English proficient (LEP) individuals.

    “Nineteen years ago, Hawaiʻi became the first state in the nation to pass a comprehensive language access law to affirmatively address the needs of members of our community with limited English proficiency,” said May Mizuno, executive director of the Office of Language Access. “It is vitally important that every person with limited English proficiency has meaningful access to state services, no matter what language they speak. The Office of Language Access will continue to work collaboratively with all state agencies to ensure that state services are truly accessible to everyone in our state.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom slams RFK Jr.’s plan to target abortion access with bogus “review” of safe, legal abortion medication

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 15, 2025

    Sacramento, California — Governor Gavin Newsom today condemned U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for calling on the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) to conduct a “complete review” of mifepristone — the safe, effective, and FDA-approved abortion medication used in more than 60% of abortions nationwide.

    RFK Jr.’s request is based not on new scientific data, but bogus political “research” from a conservative organization, the Ethics & Public Policy Center — a group with a long history of opposing reproductive rights. Mifepristone has been FDA-approved since 2000 and has a well-established safety record backed by over two decades of use and clinical data.

    “This is yet another attack on women’s reproductive freedom and scientifically-reviewed health care from an HHS Secretary who just yesterday said in a Senate hearing: ‘I don’t think people should be taking medical advice from me.’ California will continue to protect every person’s right to make their own medical decisions and help ensure that Mifepristone is available to those who need it.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Newsom actions to protect abortion access

    In the years since the Dobbs decision, California has stepped up to lead the way in protecting access to reproductive freedom for people in California and for those who travel to California to access this essential health care:

    • May 2025: The 2025-2026 May Revision proposes expanding the authority of CalRx to purchase brand-name drugs. This change gives the state more tools to respond to supply chain disruptions, market manipulation, or politically motivated restrictions that could threaten access to essential medications — including medication abortion.
    • May 2024: Governor Newsom signed SB 233 with the Legislative Women’s Caucus to allow Arizona abortion providers to temporarily provide abortion care to patients from Arizona who travel to California for care following the Arizona Supreme Court’s ruling to reimpose a regressive 1864 law imposing a near-total abortion ban in their state. 
    • January 2024: The Reproductive Freedom Alliance, led by Governor Newsom, filed an amicus curiae brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in the case of Food and Drug Administration, et al., v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, arguing that, if the Court allowed the Fifth Circuit’s decision rejecting FDA’s approval of mifepristone to stand, it would undermine Governors’ ability to provide adequate healthcare services and would have far-reaching implications beyond reproductive healthcare. The Supreme Court sided with the FDA in June 2024.
    • May 2023: First Partner Siebel Newsom spoke with the California Legislative Women’s Caucus about the State’s efforts to protect reproductive freedom.
    • April 2023: Governor Newsom procured an emergency stockpile of Misoprostol, a safe and effective medication abortion drug, as legal challenges continue to move through the courts in an attempt to block Mifepristone.
    • March 2023: Governor Newsom joined 13 other Governors in calling on major pharmacies to clarify plans for dispensing Mifepristone and other actions they plan to take to safeguard access to reproductive health care drugs.
    • February 2023: Governor Newsom launched the Reproductive Freedom Alliance, a coalition of 22 Governors fighting together to protect and advance reproductive freedom.
    • January 2023: First Partner Siebel Newsom joined reproductive rights leaders on the steps of the California Capitol to talk about the importance of storytelling, uplifting voices, and sharing lived-experiences when it comes to the fight for reproductive freedom.
    • November 2022: 
      • Governor Newsom posthumously pardoned California abortion provider Laura Miner as a powerful reminder of the generations of people who fought for reproductive freedom in this country.
      • Voters pass Governor Newsom and the Legislature’s Proposition 1, an amendment to the state constitution to enshrine the right to reproductive freedom – including abortion care and contraception.
    • September 2022: 
      • Governor Newsom launched Abortion.CA.Gov to ensure people across California, and the country, can access essential information regarding reproductive health care, including resources available to support access to care.
      • Governor Newsom, working with the Legislature, ensured California passed the largest reproductive freedom bill package in state history, building firewalls around California as a reproductive freedom state.
    • June 2022, Governor Newsom:
      • Signed legislation to help protect patients and providers in California against radical attempts by other states to extend their anti-abortion laws into California, on the same day Roe v. Wade was overturned.
      • Invested over $200 million in reproductive health care. A large amount of these funds have already been disbursed for a variety of community efforts to maintain and increase reproductive health care services.
      • Issued an Executive Order protecting all state-held data and information from being used by out-of-state anti-abortion groups to target providers and patients.

    Joined the Governors of Oregon and Washington to launch a new Multi-State Commitment to defend access to reproductive health care and protect patients and providers.

    Recent news

    May 14, 2025

    News “We’re done with barriers. Let’s get this built.” What you need to know: Governor Newsom’s proposed budget includes proposals to streamline permitting and accelerate development  —- clearing the path for more housing and economic opportunity.  SACRAMENTO –…

    May 14, 2025

    News Tax cut for military retireesUniversal pre-kindergarten for all Expanded before school, after school, & summer schoolFree school meals for all kids Boosting literacy & readingBuilding more housing, ASAPMore water for CaliforniansLowering drug…

    May 14, 2025

    News Reducción de impuestos para jubilados militares Pre-kinder universal para todos Ampliación de programas antes y después de clases y cursos de verano Alimentación escolar gratuita para todos los niños Impulso de la alfabetización y la lectura Construyendo más…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Lord Mayor takes on historic role

    Source: City of Leicester

    LEICESTER’S new Lord Mayor has been handed the chains of office at a ceremony in the city’s Town Hall.

    Cllr Teresa Aldred, who has represented Thurncourt ward since the 2015 local elections, was sworn in as the city’s first citizen at a meeting of the full council yesterday (Thursday).

    At the ceremony, the new Lord Mayor announced she would be supporting two important health charities in her mayoral year: the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust and ANDYSMANCLUB.

    Cllr Aldred will be supported in her year in office by the Lady Mayoress, her daughter Libby Aldred, together with her good friend Maggie Corley and the former boxer Rendall Munroe, who will serve as her consorts.

    “I am very excited and maybe just a little nervous about being the Lord Mayor of Leicester but I promise to serve the people with my whole heart,” said Cllr Aldred.

    “I am proud to be the Lord Mayor of this beautiful city – so rich in diversity and culture, and a place I have always called home.

    “During my year in office, I hope to highlight some of the many brilliant things that happen in the city but often go unnoticed.

    “I will also be passionate about supporting the work of the two charities I have chosen: the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust, which strives to reduce the impact and incidence of sudden arrhythmic death syndrome, increase the number of public access defibrillators in communities, and train more people in the skills needed to save a life in an emergency – and the suicide prevention charity, ANDYSMANCLUB. 

    “In my year in office, I hope to raise awareness of the vital work that both charities do.”

    Born and raised in Thurnby Lodge – where she still lives today – Cllr Aldred attended Willowbrook and St Joseph’s primary schools, before moving on to St Paul’s RC School and Hamilton Community College.

    She began work in a care home for the elderly, while attending Charles Frears College of Nursing and Midwifery, and she also trained as a teaching assistant.

    While raising her family, she started taking an active role in the local community, holding events at the Thurncourt Community Centre and assisting with sessions for elderly people.

    Cllr Aldred is married with four children and is passionate about horses, having had her own horse from a young age. Although she still keeps and cares for horses, it’s her children who continue to live her dream and she very much encourages them to be involved and enjoy the outdoors.

    The family also enjoy travelling across England in their motorhome.

    Cllr Aldred becomes the latest incumbent of an office that dates back to at least 1209. Formerly the ‘Mayor of Leicester’, the title was upgraded to ‘Lord Mayor’ in 1928.

    The outgoing Lord Mayor, Cllr Bhupen Dave, will serve as Deputy Lord Mayor in 2025-26, with Cllr Manjula Sood remaining as High Bailiff.

    More information about the office of the Lord Mayor is available at leicester.gov.uk

     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary for Health chairs first meeting of Advisory Committee on Health and Medical Innovation Development (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Secretary for Health chairs first meeting of Advisory Committee on Health and Medical Innovation Development ————
    Secretary for Health————————————————————-
    Mr Yang Ting  ————————–
    Professor Isaiah Arkin
    Professor Bian Zhaoxiang
    Dr Benjamin Li Xiaoyi 
    Professor Tony Mok Shu-kam
    Professor Walter Seto Wai-kay
    Professor David Shum Ho-keung
    Professor Karl Tsim Wah-Keung
    Mr Fred Tung
    Ms Wu Shan———————
    Permanent Secretary for Health
    Deputy Secretary for Health 3
    Senior Advisor (Secretary for Health’s Office)
    Representative from the Department of Health
    Representative from the Hospital Authority
    Representative from the Innovation and Technology Commission
    Representative from the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation
    Issued at HKT 17:22

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Information with a view to the effective and swift pursuit of the objectives set in Directive (EU) 2023/2668 on asbestos – E-001860/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001860/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Anna Maria Cisint (PfE), Isabella Tovaglieri (PfE), Aldo Patriciello (PfE)

    According to Italy’s Ministry of Health, National Institute of Health and National Registry of Mesothelioma, more than 7 000 people died in Italy from asbestos-related diseases in 2024, and an estimated 60 000 people since 2015.

    In the EU as a whole, asbestos is the leading cause of fatal work-related diseases. Directive (EU) 2023/2668 gives Member States urgent instructions to be applied by the end of 2025, including in the new Member States, which appear to be a long way from implementing them and slow to establish comprehensive programmes for the clean-up and disposal of this deadly pollutant.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.With a view to the adoption of a better and effective comprehensive strategy for the application of Directive (EU) 2023/2668, does the Commission intend to involve external stakeholders with proven experience in this area, such as national industry associations and asbestos outlets, which, in countries such as Italy, provide a format for risk management and disposal, so that we can build faster pathways and clean up all the asbestos in Europe for good?
    • 2.Is it pushing for or planning to push for action and funding, for the health sector and for public and private entities, intended to foster a structured pathway that covers everything from information to training and environmental action, such as area mapping and cleaning up?

    Submitted: 8.5.2025

    Last updated: 16 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese vice premier to attend 78th World Health Assembly, visit Switzerland, Belarus

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Chinese vice premier to attend 78th World Health Assembly, visit Switzerland, Belarus

    BEIJING, May 16 — Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong will attend the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva and visit Switzerland, and then visit Belarus and chair the sixth meeting of the Chinese-Belarusian Intergovernmental Committee on Cooperation from May 18 to 23, a foreign ministry spokesperson announced Friday

    The visits of Liu, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, were at the invitation of World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and the governments of Switzerland and Belarus, said the spokesperson.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Join a community litter pick to ‘Bin the Stigma’

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    The B.More group,  composed of individuals with lived experience of recovery, is coordinating the litter pick on Friday 23 May in Buckland and Landport.

    The litter pick will include clearing a small area within Landport Community Garden, which is planned to become a memorial garden and reflective space for those impacted by drug or alcohol related deaths in the city.

    ‘Bin the Stigma’ is part of Portsmouth’s activities as an ‘Inclusive Recovery City,’ a programme led by the B.More group.

    In November 2024, Portsmouth signed a charter to become an Inclusive Recovery City—a place that visibly promotes recovery from addiction, challenges stigma, and champions pathways to recovery.

    Cllr Matthew Winnington, Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing, Health and Care, at Portsmouth City Council, said:

    “Being an Inclusive Recovery City gives us the opportunity to help tackle stigma around addiction and recovery, building a supportive and inclusive community. Activities such as Bin the Stigma show that people in recovery can make such a positive impact in the community.”

    The litter pick will start from 10am on 23 May, with participants meeting at Ambition Portsmouth, 67 Kingston Road, PO2 7DX, where the litter pick will also finish.

    Refreshments will be available. Anyone in the community is welcome to join.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Derby’s Springwood Leisure Centre members share their inspiring fitness stories

    Source: City of Derby

    Springwood Leisure Centre is proud to highlight the remarkable fitness journeys of some of its members. Spurred on by the centre’s dedicated team, this terrific trio are shining examples of the transformative power of exercise and the strength of Springwood’s community spirit.

    Nick Findlay embarked on a journey to improve his health and well-being after taking early retirement. At 56, Nick was facing health risks associated with being overweight. Joining Springwood Leisure Centre marked a turning point. 

    Through a tailored plan combining cardio and weights, and with the encouragement of the Springwood team, Nick embraced the gym environment and found he particularly enjoyed spin and indoor cycling classes. These classes not only complemented his workouts but also fostered a sense of community and new friendships.

    Nick said:

    I find myself now a year older and nearly 24kg (3 stone 10 pounds) lighter. It was a lifestyle change to look and feel better but also enhance my quality of life. I can only share my experience in the hope that someone might read this and think, if he can do it, then perhaps I can…

    Stephen Barton’s journey began ten years ago when he walked into Springwood Leisure Centre facing a life-altering rare spinal condition, Dural Arteriovenous Fistula (Dural AVF), which had led to paralysis and permanent physical disability. Stephen’s mission was not about his appearance, but about maintaining strength in his legs, building upper body power, and preserving mobility. The gym became his vital tool, both physically and mentally.

    Through consistent cardio and strength training, Stephen has not only defied his condition but also become an integral part of the Springwood community. Even after a significant setback, his determination to keep moving forward remained unwavering.

    Nicole Davies, health and wellbeing advisor at Springwood Leisure Centre, said:

    For Stephen, the gym isn’t about ego or aesthetics — it’s about freedom, mental health, and proving that every obstacle can be overcome with the right mindset. The friendships he’s built, the people he’s inspired, and the energy he brings are unmatched. 

    He knows everyone’s name. He lifts spirits as much as weights. Now, ten years into his journey, Stephen continues to show us what true strength looks like.

    Fellow member Dan Wade has demonstrated exceptional dedication and competitive spirit. Participating in a Myzone global gym contest, Dan competed against elite participants worldwide and proudly finished in third place.

    Dan said:

    It’s only been possible due to the fantastic people at Springwood. I’d like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to all the personal trainers for their amazing classes and incredible support – your energy, expertise, and encouragement make such a difference, and I really appreciate the effort you put into every session. 

    And a massive shoutout to all the regulars for making every gym visit so much fun. The banter, laughs and energy you bring make every session something to look forward to. It’s awesome to push ourselves together, and I appreciate every bit of the motivation, it truly wouldn’t be the same without you.

    Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Streetpride, Public Safety and Leisure, said:

    The stories of Nick, Stephen and Dan are a testament to the transformative power of dedication and the strong community spirit at the heart of Springwood Leisure Centre. Their stories show how important it is to have excellent local facilities like Springwood, helping our communities embrace a healthier lifestyle.

    Facilities at Springwood Leisure Centre include a fully-equipped gym, a varied programme of exercise classes, sports courts and pitches. Derby Active caters for members of all types, with junior membership (ages 12-16) and over 75s priced at just £13.50 a month. Health & Fitness Unlimited Membership is £26.99. Concessions are available.

    All memberships also allow access to fitness facilities at Derby Arena. Both gyms are always staffed with a fitness professional on hand to support and assist.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Looking after your mental health and wellbeing – Mental Health Awareness Week 2025

    Source: City of Coventry

    As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, people in Coventry and Warwickshire are being encouraged to think about how they can look after their mental health and wellbeing.

    Along with this, people are being encouraged to think about how they can access support if they need it. 

    This year’s theme is ‘community’. Being part of a safe and positive community is crucial for promoting positive mental health and wellbeing. Strong connections with other people and a sense of community not only offer us support when we need it but also remind us that we are not alone.

    It’s important to remember that looking after your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health. Just like physical health, the most effective way to look after our mental health is by being proactive and taking steps to prevent issues from occurring in the first place. 

    There are general things that we can do to maintain overall health and wellbeing, including making sure to get enough sleep, connecting with loved ones, and being more active. 

    However, everyone will have different methods that work for them and there is no one size fits all approach. The important thing is to find the methods that help you stay happy and healthy. 

    No matter how proactive someone is, there may be times when they need support. Mental health challenges are common, with one in four adults experiencing them each year. It’s important to seek help if you need it. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength not weakness.

    If you are struggling with your mental health, there are a range of mental health and wellbeing services available across Coventry and Warwickshire that can provide the support you need. Both Warwickshire County Council and Coventry City Council have information on their websites outlining the support available in those areas. 

    Remember, if you or someone you are with is in a mental health crisis and needs urgent support, call 111 or go to 111 online and select the mental health option. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

    As part of Mental Health Awareness Week and to ensure that everyone in Coventry and Warwickshire can access information, advice and support for their mental health and wellbeing, a range of web pages have been created on the Happy Healthy Lives website. 

    These pages provide tips and ideas for how people can look after their mental health and wellbeing, where they can go to for support should they need it. The pages also provide an insight into the work being done in Coventry and Warwickshire to promote and support better mental health and wellbeing.

    Cllr Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Sport at Coventry City Council, said: “It’s vital that health agencies, local councils and the community work together to support with mental health.

    “There are many different ways people can look after their mental health and wellbeing, from mindfulness, to exercise, to connecting with loved ones. Whatever method works for you, taking time out to do things that promote positive mental health is crucial. 

    “Remember, you’re not alone. If you need support, then it is there for you. Whether that’s information on how you can look after your wellbeing or support from a mental health professional.” 

    Dr Imogen Staveley, Chief Nursing Officer at NHS Coventry and Warwickshire ICB, said: “Mental health and wellbeing plays a vital role in all of our lives and our overall health, so it’s really important that we all take steps to help improve our overall wellbeing. This Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re encouraging everyone to think about what methods work for them and continue to find ways to boost their mental health and wellbeing each and every day. 

    “However, if you are struggling with your mental health, there’s a range of support available. Please reach out to your local mental health services if you need help.”

    Shade Agboola, Director of Public Health at Warwickshire County Council, said: “We know that interactions with others can be a boost to our health and wellbeing. Meeting a friend or walking through the park with a family member or neighbour can help us feel supported. There are several activities in the County, including book clubs, walking groups, and football and yoga clubs available to everyone in Warwickshire. These groups and communities are made up of people from all backgrounds and ages.

    “Trying something new and expanding your horizons is one of the best ways to boost your mental health.”

    Richard Onyon, Chief Medical Officer at Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust said: “Mental Health Awareness Week is an opportunity to raise awareness of the support available for those struggling with their mental health and check in with our own mental wellbeing.

    “At CWPT, we encourage anyone struggling with their mental health to get the support they need. NHS Coventry, Warwickshire and Solihull Talking Therapies can help those struggling with anxiety or depression, as well as other mental health problems, and you can self-refer to the service online by visiting the NHS website or by calling us on 024 7667 1090.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Artificial Intelligence – a Partner or a Replacement for Humans?

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The All-Russian scientific-practical and educational-methodical conference with international participation “Fundamental and applied research in the field of management, economics and trade” was held at the Polytechnic University.

    The plenary session of the conference was devoted to the discussion of cross-industry solutions using artificial intelligence in various sectors of the economy. The session was opened and the discussion was moderated by the chairperson of the conference program committee, director of the scientific and educational center for information technology and business analysis “Gazprom Neft”, professor of the Higher Engineering and Economics School of the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade of SPbPU Irina Rudskaya.

    Welcoming the participants of the conference, which opened in the White Hall of SPbPU, Vice-Rector for Research Yuri Fomin recalled that the university has chosen three relevant areas in its development strategy until 2030, including the development of artificial intelligence technologies.

    It is gratifying that our university is increasingly having discussion platforms on this topic. This is important for working out the decisions being made, finding answers to the questions that AI poses to us, said Yuri Vladimirovich.

    In turn, Vladimir Shchepinin, Director of the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade of SPbPU, noted that within the framework of the conference, the institute is holding a plenary session in the format of a panel discussion for the first time, as well as a competition of scientific works of students and postgraduates, according to the results of which the winners will receive scholarships from the institute’s fund, formed together with industrial partners.

    For two hours, the panelists kept the audience’s interest alive. The tone and theme were set by Yuri Fomin, who oversees the AI development direction at SPbPU.

    For us, cross-industry is everything related to engineering, not a specific segment. This is our competitive advantage. Today, we earn about two hundred million rubles a year on such developments using AI, and by 2030, we plan to reach one and a half billion rubles, concentrating on performing applied tasks for our partners, – said Yuri Fomin and spoke about some of the projects being implemented today.

    The Vice-Rector for Research also identified the main barriers that prevent more effective use of AI in the real sector of the economy. The first barrier is the lack of clear formalization of the business process, and for the implementation of AL technologies there must be a clear sequence of actions. The second barrier is insufficient digitalization: correct data is obtained from correctly digitized business processes. Incorrect data leads to making incorrect decisions.

    All speakers, starting with the Vice President, Director of the North-West Macroregional Branch of PJSC Rostelecom Alexander Loginov, spoke about overcoming such barriers and other tasks. He noted that the data really should be reliable, and that infrastructure and personnel are also needed to use AI. Alexander Evgenievich cited the results of one foreign study, according to which more than 60% of employees hide from management that they use AI, and 66% blindly trust all the information received. All participants in the discussion agreed that the solutions and answers offered by neural networks should be verified. This is especially important in such a field as medicine, although the largest number of datasets have been collected here and most of the data is carefully verified. As Petr Shegai, Deputy Director General for Science at the National Medical Research Center of Radiology of the Russian Ministry of Health, explained, Russian AL technologies for medicine, based on data collected in the country, today make it possible to prescribe treatment and help to partly equalize the opportunities of experienced and novice doctors, although, of course, any final decision on the appointment is made by a person.

    Svetlana Merkushina, Executive Director of the Sber Education Industry Center, spoke about the main trends related to data analysis, the advantages of using AI, including reducing the risk of human factor and accelerating all processes. Any AI is data plus algorithms that increase productivity. But what needs to be done to make AI truly generative? According to Maxim Patrushev, Deputy Head of the Kurchatov Complex of NBICS-nature-like technologies at the Kurchatov Institute National Research Center, there is no answer to this question yet, but methods for increasing productivity using AI are being actively created, big data is being analyzed for decision-making, and options for solutions in working with genes are being calculated. For example, scientists at the NRC are working on the Controlled Evolution software.

    Continuing the topic of possible solutions, Director of the Federal Scientific Center for Vegetable Growing, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Alexey Soldatenko emphasized the possibilities of using AI to solve the problem of food security, increase agricultural yields and reduce labor costs. AI is actively used in breeding, development of animal nutrition, and “smart” video surveillance of animal behavior. Among the problems identified in the implementation of new technologies, Alexey Vasilyevich named an insufficiently developed regulatory framework, and also noted that technologies will change so rapidly that they will have to be mastered constantly.

    The importance of continuous training was also highlighted by the rector of the Gazprom Neft Corporate University, Ilya Dementyev, who noted that each employee of their company undergoes additional training three times a year. Summing up the discussion, Ilya Aleksandrovich identified another problem – a lack of understanding of the essence of artificial intelligence.

    We need to think about whether we have reached a point of singularity, when the technologies being created are used by people who do not understand what they are using. Therefore, we need to stimulate not only the development of technologies, but also the development of education in the field of artificial intelligence. And it is important that there is a demand from within – from the teachers themselves, who must understand how to use AI in teaching, and from students, who must understand what competencies they will need, the speaker noted.

    The panel discussion ended with a conversation with the audience. The speakers answered questions about how they see the labor market changing, what skills employers need, what language models are best to use, and what ethical issues remain unresolved. There was no clear answer to the last question, “What is artificial intelligence?” And while there is no understanding of what is in the “black box,” according to experts, it is worth asking more about how to use it rather than what AI is.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The second meeting of the joint dissertation council of the State University of Management and the Belarusian State Technical University named after V.G. Shukhov took place

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On May 15, a meeting of the joint dissertation council was held, created on the basis of the BSTU named after V.G. Shukhov and the State University of Management in the scientific specialty 2.9.9. “Logistics transport systems”. The main issues on the agenda were dissertation research for the academic degrees of Doctor of Science and Candidate of Science.

    The meeting, chaired by the rector of the V.G. Shukhov BSTU Sergey Glagolev, was held with a full quorum: out of 13 council members, 10 were present in the hall, three joined remotely.

    Colleagues from the Yelets State University named after Bunin were invited as guests: Director of the Institute of Agrobiotechnology and Technical Systems Sergei Shubkin, Senior Lecturer of the Department of Agricultural Engineering, Mechatronic and Radioelectronic Systems Sergei Dobrin and Senior Lecturer of the Department of Agricultural Engineering, Mechatronic and Radioelectronic Systems Vladimir Volkov.

    Three candidates presented their dissertations for preliminary hearing. Roman Khalturin was the first to present his research on the topic of “Methodology of resource allocation in passenger transport systems based on the theory of decision-making under uncertainty”. Dmitry Nikitin’s dissertation topic was “Method of optimization of the management structure of multi-level logistics transport ecosystems”. Nikolay Solovyov devoted his dissertation to the method of ensuring the unity of efficiency measures for various types of transport in logistics transport systems. Following the presentations, the council members asked questions and expressed comments and suggestions that should be taken into account in the further development of the dissertations.

    Another issue on the agenda was the consideration and approval of the regulations for the work of the joint dissertation council, which was presented by the director of the Transport and Technology Institute Ivan Novikov. The preparation of the document was initiated at the first meeting of the council, which was held at the State University of Management in Moscow. Rector Sergey Glagolev emphasized that this is the first joint dissertation council in Russia in the field of logistics transport systems, created on the basis of two educational organizations.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 05/16/2025

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 16 May 2025 News release One World for Health: The Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly convenes from 19 to 27 May 2025

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The Seventy-eighth session of the World Health Assembly (WHA78) will convene from 19 to 27 May 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland, under the theme “One World for Health”. 

    The Health Assembly will bring together high-level country representatives and other stakeholders to address health challenges. This year’s gathering comes at a pivotal moment for global health, as Member States confront emerging threats and major shifts in the landscape for global health and international development.

    This year’s theme underscores WHO’s enduring commitment to solidarity and equity, highlighting that even in unprecedented times, everyone, everywhere should have an equal chance to live a healthy life.  

    A defining moment: the Pandemic Agreement

    A highly anticipated moment of the WHA78 will be the consideration of the Pandemic Agreement, a landmark proposal developed over three years of intense negotiations by the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body, composed of all WHO Member States. The adoption of the agreement is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to safeguard the world from a repeat of the suffering caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The proposal will be the second ever presented for approval under Article 19 of the WHO Constitution, which gives Member States the authority to reach agreements on global health.

    “This year’s World Health Assembly will be truly historic with countries, after 3 years of negotiations, considering for adoption the first global compact to better protect people from pandemics,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “The Pandemic Agreement can make the world safer by boosting collaboration among countries fairly in the preparedness, prevention and response to pandemics.” 

    Key priorities

    WHO’s sustainable financing is a key priority of the Health Assembly. Member States will consider a scheduled 20% increase in assessed contributions (membership fees), towards the next Programme Budget 2026–2027 (PB26-27). The PB26–27, also for approval by the Health Assembly, is the first full biennium under WHO’s Fourteenth General Programme of Work (GPW14), WHO’s strategy for global health for 2025–2028. The Programme Budget for 2026–2027 was under consultation by Member States, to prioritize activities and adjust the budget to the current financial realities, by reducing it by 22%, to US$ 4.267 billion, from the original proposed budget of US$ 5.3 billion. 

    Reprioritization of WHO’s work, including cost-saving measures and budget adjustments, will also apply to the current year, 2025. The aim is to focus on WHO’s core work and increase efficiency. The reprioritization is a critical step to aligning WHO’s resources with the most urgent global health needs and getting health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) back on track. 

    Sustainable financing was one of several transformation priorities put in place by the WHO Director-General to ensure a more efficient and impactful WHO when he first took office. On Tuesday, 20 May, there will be a high-level pledging moment for the Investment Round, where Member States and philanthropies are expected to announce funding for WHO. 

    Member States will assess progress made over the past year, including a review of the 2024 Results Report – the final report measuring progress toward WHO’s Triple Billion targets under its Thirteenth General Programme of Work. 

    Other agenda highlights

    The Health Assembly will consider approximately 75 items and sub-items and is expected to approve more than 40 resolutions/decisions, many of which are put forward by the Executive Board at its 156th session (EB156), where they have been previously discussed. 

    The packed agenda covers a diverse range of topics in WHO’s Programme of Work, such as the health and care workforce, antimicrobial resistance, health emergencies, preparedness, polio, climate change and social connection as determinants of health, among other issues.  

    Awards and recognition

    On the morning of Friday, 23 May, the WHA President will present public health prizes and awards, recognizing exceptional contributions by individuals and organizations to the advancement of public health. 

    It is also expected that the Director-General will announce two Director-General’s Awards for Global Health on the morning of Tuesday, 20 May. 

    Key events and side activities

    Forty-five official side events will take place at the Palais des Nations from Monday 19 May to Saturday 24 May (see the complete list).  A list of other events is available here.   

    A high-level pledging event will be held on Tuesday 20 May, from 18:45 to 19:45 CEST in Room XVIII at the Palais des Nations. The event: Sustainable financing of WHO for impact in the new global health landscape, will serve as a platform for Member States and partners to announce pledges and commitments towards WHO’s Investment Round. More details and webcast.

    A Ministerial Roundtable on data and sustainable financing will be held on Wednesday 21 May, from 13:00 to 14:20 CEST in Room XVIII at the Palais des Nations. This high-level roundtable will bring together ministers of health and finance, global partners, and technical leaders to identify scalable actions that strengthen country-led health data systems and sustainable financing strategies for universal health coverage and the health-related SDGs. More information: here.

    Due to resource constraints, additional events will be limited. WHA78 will take place in a challenging financial environment. Several actions have been taken by the WHO in an effort to contain costs, including reducing speaking times when possible, in order to reduce evening sessions to a minimum, severely limiting hospitality, displays and exhibits and event costs, amongst other administrative cost-saving measures. 

    Member States and partners are organizing events on the sidelines of the WHA. More information through the WHA Guide and the WHA78 page through the UN Foundation.

    Assembly timeline highlights

    • Monday 19 May: Morning: Opening of the Assembly; including the presidential address and the address by Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General. Committee A begins deliberations on the Pandemic Agreement in the afternoon.
    • Tuesday 20 May: Morning: Adoption of the Pandemic Agreement (expected), followed by the High-level Segment featuring statements from dignitaries and a Director-General’s keynote speech and the Director-General’s Awards for Global Health. Afternoon, Committee A: Discussion on the Proposed Programme Budget 2026–2027, including discussion on the AC increase. Evening: high-level pledging event for the WHO Investment Round
    • Wednesday 21 May: Lunch hour: Ministerial Roundtable on data and sustainable financing
    • Friday 23 May: Morning: Presentation of the Public Health Prizes and Awards  

    The agenda and the times might change. A daily journal will be published every morning on the WHA78 Documents page to provide more detailed information on the daily timings. 

    Pre- and post-Assembly sessions

    The Health Assembly will take place after the Forty-second Meeting of the Programme, Budget and Administrative Committee of the Executive Board (PBAC42), which is being held from 14 to 16 May.

    After the Assembly, the 157th Executive Board (EB157) meeting will take place on 28 and 29 May, with the appointment of the next Regional Director for the WHO African Region on the agenda. Related to this item, a special session of the AFRO Regional Committee will take place on Sunday 18 May to nominate a candidate for the post of Regional Director. The webcast of the EB157 public sessions and related documentation is here. 

    About the World Health Assembly

    As WHO’s highest decision-making body, the World Health Assembly sets out the Organization’s policy and approves its budget. The Health Assembly is attended by delegations from all WHO Member States.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –