Category: 3. Business

  • Journal of Medical Internet Research

    Journal of Medical Internet Research

    Many countries are facing an aging population [], with a rising prevalence of chronic diseases []. Community health screenings are key preventive health programs designed to screen, detect, and manage these conditions. However, these screening programs report inconsistent follow-up rates [,], and many patients face barriers to sustaining lifestyle changes, including a lack of knowledge and inadequate community support [,]. In the United States, many cancer screening programs involve fewer than 75% of patients receiving some form of follow-up care []. In 2016, SingHealth, Singapore’s largest public health care cluster, reported that 1 in 4 individuals screened via community-based health screenings had not returned for a doctor’s follow-up after a year []. Loss to follow-up has significant physical and socioeconomic implications, including untreated chronic conditions, physical complications, reduced efficiency of the health care system, and increased financial costs [].

    These patterns reveal a critical gap in how traditional screening models are designed, focusing on biomedical detection but often overlooking the motivational, relational, and digital drivers of health behavior change. Research increasingly points to the importance of psychosocial support and person-centered coaching, and digital enablement in facilitating sustainable health outcomes [,]. Community health volunteers, when appropriately trained, have demonstrated potential to complement health systems by engaging individuals, reinforcing health messages, and bridging gaps in service delivery [,]. Community health volunteers can be empowered to guide health screening participants in navigating the health system, increasing follow-up rates, setting specific health-related lifestyle goals, and adhering to them. Previous qualitative studies have shown the benefits of this approach, including improved person-focused coordinated care [], more seamless referrals to appropriate services [], and the promotion of healthy practices []. Experts recommend measuring indicators that predict the success of lay counselors [] and exploring their effectiveness in more complex tasks, such as diagnosis and counseling []. When designed and implemented appropriately, community-based health coaching has the potential to be a significant nonclinical intervention for individual and population health [], simultaneously improving the health literacy of health coaches undergoing training and that of the general public, and facilitating the adoption of healthy practices across generations []. Despite promising findings, the literature on community health volunteers remains largely focused on adult volunteers, with limited research examining the effectiveness of youth community health volunteers (YCHVs), particularly those aged 15‐35 years, in the context of community-based health interventions or screening programs. While youth involvement in aging and intergenerational initiatives is well-documented, many of these programs are broad in focus and do not center specifically on health promotion [-]. The World Health Organization defines youth as individuals aged 15‐25 years, but in Singapore, the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth adopts a broader definition, classifying youth as those aged 15-35 years []. For the purpose of this study, we adopt the latter definition.

    In tandem, digital literacy has emerged as a key determinant of access to health information and services, especially among older adults [,]. This is particularly salient in health systems such as Singapore’s, where national preventive health reforms promote primary care engagement and follow-up via digital platforms [,]. However, many seniors face barriers to adopting digital tools, such as limited confidence, lack of guidance, or unfamiliarity with technology [-]. These barriers risk exacerbating digital exclusion, potentially widening health disparities [,]. As such, there is an urgent need for community-based digital health support integrated with preventive health efforts. YCHVs may be well-positioned to address this dual challenge by providing motivation-based coaching alongside digital enablement.

    HealthStart was developed as a response to these gaps. Anchored in Self-Determination Theory (SDT), the program aims to address the core psychological needs of autonomy, competence, and relatedness in health behavior change. HealthStart operationalizes these principles through intergenerational service learning, where YCHVs serve as health coaches guiding older adults through a structured journey of goal-setting and lifestyle change by equipping them with digital health tools and skills.

    In this study, we evaluated HealthStart as both a service delivery model and a motivation-based intervention. We used a mixed methods design with independently collected quantitative and qualitative data during the same timeframe, integrated post hoc through joint analysis to assess its impact on primary care providers’ (PCP) follow-up rates, health goal attainment, self-efficacy, and digital and health literacy among older adults. We also explored the perspectives of key stakeholders, including YCHVs, health care volunteers (HCV), and participants, to understand the program’s feasibility, acceptability, and areas for refinement.

    Conceptual Framework

    HealthStart is an SDT-based intervention designed to support the Healthier SG initiative, the local government’s policy to promote healthier aging by reshaping the population’s health-seeking behaviors and lifestyle through collaborative, community-based care []. The national reform also emphasizes digital inclusion, aiming to enroll seniors with a PCP through the national digital health apps. The program aims to increase the engagement and follow-up rates of participants attending a chronic disease community health screening by developing, training, and empowering YCHVs to serve as health and digital advocates who accompany participants on their postscreening journey over 3 months.

    SDT proposes that personally relevant goals are more internally motivated and are thus more likely to be obtained than goals set due to some external pressure []. It specifies 3 basic psychological needs (ie, autonomy, competence, and relatedness) that provide the basis for motivation and development and are the contextual conditions that facilitate internal motivation and help people integrate their behavior into their everyday lives and sense of self. Autonomy refers to the feeling that one’s actions are the result of one’s own volition, competence is the belief in one’s ability to effect change and achieve desired outcomes, and relatedness is the extent to which one feels a connection with others. Self-integration of behaviors occurs when externally motivated behaviors (ie, behaviors regulated by an external force) become integrated into one’s sense of self; that is, they contribute to one’s overall self-evaluation.

    Autonomy is fostered through health coaching and the cocreation of health-related lifestyle goals using the SMART framework (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic/Relevant, and Time-bound) []. Competency is developed through health education, action planning, and real-time feedback, alongside digital enablement (eg, using health apps to schedule appointments, access results, and track lifestyle goals). Relatedness is cultivated through continuity of follow-up with a dedicated YCHV. These shared decision-making mechanisms constitute the hypothesized mediators linking program activities to behavioral and clinical outcomes.

    HealthStart is also anchored on 2 complementary frameworks (intergenerational and service-learning frameworks). YCHVs are taught health knowledge and health coaching skills, which they apply through their interaction with older adults under the guidance of HCVs. This program builds on prior intergenerational program experiences []. It facilitates intergenerational transfer of health knowledge between the different participants by incorporating principles of contact theory (institutional support, equal status, cooperative interaction, and shared goals) []. In addition, HealthStart facilitates the intergenerational transfer of health knowledge when YCHVs share the knowledge and experience gained from the program with their families and communities []. The program uses a service-learning approach, combining learning objectives with community service to create a meaningful learning experience that addresses the needs of older adults in the community [,]. Volunteers’ learning and development are facilitated through guided critical reflection, grounded in Kolb’s experiential learning cycle, which links their community service experience to learning objectives [,]. Finally, HealthStart leverages key components of a previously described digital literacy program shown to be effective in helping older adults acquire digital skills (eg, personalizing digital skills taught according to participants’ goals, having a tiered curriculum, using an aide-memoire, and connecting participants to a digital community) [-].

    The program’s theory of change is reflected in .

    Figure 1. HealthStart theory of change. HCV: health care volunteer; SDT: Self-Determination Theory; SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic/Relevant, and Time-bound; YCHV: youth community health volunteer. Red arrows denote Self-Determination Theory, blue arrows denote Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic/Relevant, and Time-bound goals, and green arrows denote intergenerational and service learning.

    Program Implementation

    For the participants, the program consisted of a personal review of their health screening results, health goal setting with their assigned YCHVs, follow-up with their PCPs, and completion of their health goals over a 3-month duration. Throughout the process, HCVs oversaw the operations and provided avenues for content clarification and professional support as necessary. Each HealthStart group consisted of 1 HCV and 4 YCHVs. Each YCHV was assigned 2 participants.

    To complete the HealthStart program, participants would need to fulfill the following criteria:

    1. Enrollment with a PCP.
    2. Learn about their chronic diseases with the aid of the Health Promotion Board booklets [].
    3. Learn at least 1 digital health app, such as HealthHub, Healthy 365 [,].
    4. Set a health-related lifestyle goal and achieve it.

    The participants would first meet their YCHVs at a community event where health screening reports were distributed and explained by a community nurse. The YCHVs would conduct their first session of health coaching with the participants and build rapport via questions that covered sociodemographic factors and lifestyle aspects (exercise, smoking, alcohol intake, and dietary habits). YCHVs subsequently taught participants about their newly diagnosed chronic disease via Health Promotion Board educational materials [], guided them in the use of digital health apps [], assisted in setting up an appointment with a PCP through the use of the digital health app HealthHub, and supported the participants in setting a lifestyle goal. YCHVs followed up with their participants one-on-one longitudinally over a period of 3 months through in-person or virtual visits (ie, video calls) every fortnight, where they checked the participants’ progress, motivated them to achieve their goals, and ensured the fulfillment of the program’s 4 goals. YCHVs attended monthly meetings with HCVs to reflect on their intergenerational and service-learning experience. Further details of the program’s implementation are available in an earlier publication [].

    Program Outcomes

    The primary outcome of the program was residents’ enrollment with a PCP. The secondary outcomes include health goal attainment, self-efficacy, and digital and health literacy among older adults, as well as the acceptability of the program among stakeholders.

    Study Design and Rationale

    This study used a convergent parallel mixed methods design, guided by the framework proposed by Edmonds and Kennedy [], to evaluate the effectiveness and acceptability of the HealthStart program. Quantitative and qualitative program evaluation data were collected, analyzed, and interpreted simultaneously to develop comprehensive insights into the program’s mechanisms and outcomes.

    Overall, 3 key considerations guided the selection of a mixed methods approach. First, while quantitative measures can capture concrete outcomes, such as follow-up rates and goal attainment, qualitative inquiry is essential to understand the relational and motivational mechanisms underlying these changes. Second, the implementation of a novel community health program required a rich contextual understanding, alongside outcome measures, to inform future scaling efforts. Third, the integration of multiple data types allowed us to examine how SDT operated in practice through both measurable outcomes and lived experiences. Both quantitative and qualitative strands were concurrently collected from the same cohort of participants and treated with equal priority in explaining the program’s outcomes.

    To ensure quality and coherence across both strands, we applied the Good Reporting of A Mixed Methods Study (GRAMMS) checklist []. The checklist ensured adequate rigor in sampling, design, integration procedures, and comparison between data types. This quality appraisal validated the credibility of emergent meta-inferences and highlighted areas of strength, such as high fidelity in YCHV training and participant engagement.

    Participants

    Older adults aged 40 years and above who participated in the health screening, YCHVs aged 15‐35 years, and HCVs who participated in the program were eligible for the study. Individuals with medical comorbidities that affected their ability to communicate (eg, severe dementia) were excluded from the study. Individuals who could not speak English, Mandarin, Malay, or Tamil were also excluded.

    Quantitative Data Collection and Analysis

    Quantitative data collection took place between September 2022 and January 2024. All eligible older adults attending the health screening were invited to participate in the study. Data were collected at the start of the first health coaching session and at the end of the program through a digital survey administered by a trained volunteer or member of the research team via FormSG (Government Technology Agency of Singapore), a secure, encrypted, web-based government form with the following predesigned fields:

    1. Sociodemographic variables: age, sex, race, marital status, highest education level, and residential type.
    2. Primary outcome: follow-up with a primary care doctor, measured as “Yes” or “No.”
    3. Secondary outcomes:
      • Knowledge questionnaire: a 12-item true or false questionnaire on chronic conditions that is an abbreviated version of the 15-minute chronic disease questionnaire [], adapted to the local context using information from the Health Promotion Board brochures.
      • Patient Activation Measure (PAM-13): a 13-item questionnaire measuring individuals’ ability to self-manage chronic disease through self-reported knowledge, skills, and confidence validated in the local context [].
      • eHealth Literacy Scale (eHEALS): an 8-item questionnaire assessing respondents’ perceived skills in using information technology for health [].
      • SMART [] health goal attainment: self-rated achievement of lifestyle goals, measured as a “Yes” or “No.”
      • Program satisfaction: “To what extent are you satisfied with the program?” with 4-level Likert scale response options (not at all satisfied, slightly unsatisfied, slightly satisfied, and very satisfied).

    Descriptive statistics were computed for the study population. The program implementation fidelity was tracked by logging the number of volunteer-participant encounters and the electronic survey responses (including engagement mode, duration, and coaching elements delivered) along with the number of final assessments conducted. The McNemar test was used to examine differences in the proportion of primary care follow-up before and after the program. Pre- and postintervention differences in secondary outcomes were compared using paired t tests. One-way ANOVA and linear trend tests were used in the subgroup analysis to evaluate the relationships between the secondary outcomes and the number of follow-up visits the residents received. A binomial logistic regression was performed with primary care follow-up as the outcome variable and demographics and baseline questionnaire scores as the independent covariates. All the statistical analyses were performed via Stata (version 15, release 15; StataCorp, 2017). Statistical significance was set at P<.05.

    Qualitative Data Collection and Analysis

    Qualitative data were collected post-program through one-to-one, semistructured interviews with older adults, HCVs, and YCHVs. Purposive sampling was used to recruit older adults who completed the program and quantitative study, based on the following criteria to ensure the representativeness of each group: age, sex, race, education level, number of follow-up visits within the program, and postprogram primary care follow-up status. The entire cohort of HCVs and YCHVs was sampled; all HCVs and YCHVs who completed the program were approached and recruited for the study. The interview guides were formulated based on the theory of change to elicit perceptions of the program, the health advocacy process with older adults, and the volunteer training program (-).

    The interviews were conducted between November 2023 and January 2024, either face-to-face or via Zoom Web Conferencing (Zoom Video Communications, Inc.), by 4 project team members who were trained and supervised by the qualitative lead coinvestigator. Each interviewer was trained in qualitative data collection techniques. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed using an automated transcription software service, and then reviewed by a project member to ensure verbatim accuracy and redact identifiable information. The 4 team members coded the transcripts using a deductive-abductive approach, focusing on perceptions of the program, the health advocacy process, and volunteer training, while allowing new themes to emerge. Thematic analysis, following the framework of Braun and Clarke [], was used by 4 coders to analyze the transcripts. After independently coding the transcripts, a secondary coder reviewed them to address discrepancies and finalize the coding. QSR NVivo 14 software (Lumivero) was used for data management and analysis. Data triangulation was used to identify areas where qualitative themes aligned with quantitative data findings on program implementation fidelity and program outcomes.

    The 4 team members affiliated with the research and evaluation arm of the Division of Population Health and Integrated Care at Singapore General Hospital were involved in the qualitative study. All of them are public health researchers or researchers-in-training with an interest in community health, and they acknowledged that their institutional roles and prior involvement in the program may have influenced the interpretation of the findings. To enhance reflexivity, interviewers engaged in pre- and postinterview debriefs, used semistructured guides to maintain consistency, and had responses cross-checked by multiple investigators to surface diverse perspectives. The team members remained attentive to potential power dynamics, reassured participants that their views would be received openly, and critically interrogated their positionality throughout data collection, analysis, and reporting to mitigate bias.

    Data Integration

    The data analysis and integration process occurred in 3 phases (). Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from the same cohort of participants in the same phase of the study. Regular meetings between project team members established preliminary findings from each strand. Thereafter, in the integration phase, joint displays were developed to map qualitative themes to quantitative outcomes, and patterns of convergence and divergence were systematically examined. Meta-inferences were generated with particular attention to how qualitative findings explained variations in quantitative outcomes. Validity was enhanced via iterative checks on integrated interpretations.

    Figure 2. Flowchart of data collection and analyses. Program components span over a duration of 3 months. There were 2 iterations of the program in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Quantitative data were collected from participants pre and post program. Qualitative data were collected from participants, health care volunteers, and youth community health volunteers during the same phase as the postprogram quantitative data collection. The data were collected over the 2 iterations of the program.

    Quality assurance measures included the application of the Good Reporting of A Mixed Methods Study (GRAMMS) [], regular team meetings to discuss emerging patterns, an independent review of integration conclusions, and systematic documentation of integration decisions. This rigorous approach to integration enabled us to develop a more nuanced understanding of program mechanisms than would have been possible through either method alone.

    Ethical Considerations

    This project received approval from the SingHealth Centralised Institutional Review Board (CIRB reference number 2022/2700). All participants provided informed consent and were given a participant information sheet. Parental consent was obtained for participants below the age of 21 years. Individuals who took part in the qualitative interviews received a reimbursement of US $23. All quantitative and qualitative data collected were deidentified and stored on a set of electronic devices that were only accessible by the evaluation team. No data related to any individual, in any form, are included in this publication.

    Overview

    HealthStart reached out to 192 older adults via 33 HCVs and 102 YCHVs over 2 health screening cycles conducted in 2022 and 2023, respectively. A total of 424 participants underwent the community health screening program, with 192 of them being eligible and subsequently recruited for the study. illustrates the flowchart of the program participants. Among the 192 study participants, 158 completed the study. The demographics of the study participants are summarized in . The mean age of the study participants was 66.9 (SD 9.6) years, and the sex distribution was approximately equal. Most of the participants were of Chinese ethnicity, had completed primary or secondary school, and resided in self-owned flats. A total of 36 semistructured interviews were conducted with older adults, HCVs, and YCHVs, achieving thematic saturation. The characteristics of the subjects can be found in .

    Figure 3. Flowchart of program participants.
    Table 1. Demographics of the study participants.
    Demographics HealthStart participants (N=192)
    Age (years), mean (SD) 66.9 (9.6)
    Sex, n (%)
     Male 92 (48)
     Female 100 (52.1)
    Ethnicity, n (%)
     Chinese 170 (88.5)
     Others 22 (11.5)
    Marital status, n (%)
     Single 58 (30.3)
     Married 133 (70)
    Highest education level, n (%)
     No formal education 18 (9.38)
     Primary education 52 (27.1)
     Secondary education 79 (41.2)
     Tertiary education 43 (22.4)
    Status of residential or living status, n (%)
     Rent or lodge 27 (14.1)
     Own 165 (85.9)
    Resident questionnaires, mean (SD)
     Knowledge 8.81 (1.58)
     PAM-13 68.7 (17.9)
     eHEALs 24.5 (10.6)

    aPAM-13: Patient Activation Measure-13.

    beHEALS: eHealth Literacy Scale.

    Table 2. Demographics of the interviewees.
    Demographics Values
    Older adults’ characteristics (n=13)
    Sex, n (%)
      Male 8 (61.5)
      Female 5 (38.5)
    Age (years), n (%)
      51‐60 2 (15.4)
      61‐70 8 (61.5)
      71‐80 1 (7.7)
      >80 2 (15.4)
    Ethnicity, n (%)
      Chinese 11 (84.6)
      Malay 1 (7.69)
      Indian 1 (7.69)
    Marital status, n (%)
      Single, divorced, or widowed 6 (46.2)
      Partner or married 7 (53.8)
    Education, n (%)
      No formal education 1 (7.69)
      Primary 5 (38.5)
      Secondary 3 (23.1)
      Tertiary 4 (30.8)
    Residential status, n (%)
      Rent or Lodge 6 (46.2)
      Own 7 (53.8)
    Number of touchpoints with the program, n (%)
      1 3 (23.1)
      2 2 (15.4)
      3 3 (23.1)
      4 1 (7.69)
      5 3 (23.1)
      6 1 (7.69)
    Follow-up status with primary care doctor, n (%)
      Following up at baseline 5 (38.5)
      Started following up after the program 5 (38.5)
      Not following up after the program 3 (23.1)
    YCHV characteristics (n=17)
    Age (years), n (%)
      <21 12 (70.6)
      21‐35 5 (29.4)
     Sex, n (%)
      Male 3 (17.6)
      Female 14 (82.4)
    HCV characteristics (n=6)
    Age (years), n (%)
      20‐30 1 (16.7)
      31‐40 4 (66.7)
      51‐60 1 (16.7)
    Sex, n (%)
      Male 2 (33.3)
      Female 4 (66.7)

    aYCHV: youth community health volunteer.

    bHCV: health care volunteer.

    Integrated Program Outcomes

    Our mixed methods analysis revealed substantial program impacts across multiple domains, with strong convergence between quantitative outcomes and qualitative insights. The integration of findings provided a deeper understanding of the program’s mechanisms and contextual factors influencing its effectiveness. We present these findings through an integrated analysis of each outcome, highlighting areas of convergence and divergence between data types.

    PCP Follow-Up

    Quantitative analysis demonstrated a significant improvement in PCP follow-up, increasing from 42.7% to 84.5% (χ²1=43; P<.001). This effect was particularly pronounced among older adults (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.2‐2.7) and participants from minority ethnic groups (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.1‐2.3).

    Qualitative findings supported these findings. Older adults credited YCHVs with demystifying health screening results, reinforcing the importance of follow-up with a primary care doctor, and providing support that bolstered their commitment to seeing a doctor. This had a specific impact on often underserved groups of older individuals and minority ethnic groups, many of whom were not connected to primary care to begin with. One participant shared:

    (YCHV) asked me to see [a] doctor… Then I go to poly(clinic), then I go check and take the medicine, cholesterol medicine, I take. Before that I never take. Before that (health screening) I never thought to see [a] doctor…
    [OA13, Female, 60-70 years]

    The integration of quantitative and qualitative data suggested that the relationship-based support model was instrumental in overcoming traditional barriers to health care access. YCHVs served as cultural bridges, combining practical assistance, such as appointment scheduling and reminders with emotional support. In doing so, they enhanced participants’ sense of competence in managing health information and navigating the system, while fostering autonomy by encouraging informed and self-directed health care choices. This finding was particularly notable among participants who had previously reported low engagement with the health care system.

    Health Behavior Change and Goal Attainment

    A dose-response relationship was observed between the number of YCHV follow-up sessions and SMART goal attainment. A statistically significant linear-by-linear trend (Z=2.44; P=.02) was observed between health goal achievement and those with none (58.46%), 1 (65.91%), or 2 or more (87.5%) YCHV follow-up visits. A total of 66.2% (92/139) of participants achieved their health goals, and 81.3% (113/139) reported satisfaction with the program. There were no statistically significant changes in the scores before and after the intervention for knowledge (t190=0.418; P=.68) and PAM-13 (t190=−1.99; P=.05). There were no statistically significant changes in knowledge (F2,130=0.61; P=.54) or PAM-13 scores (F2,130=2.07; P=.13) via one-way ANOVA between groups stratified by the number of YCHV follow-up visits received.

    Qualitative findings supported and deepened the understanding of these results. The participants mentioned achieving various lifestyle changes, including reducing the intake of unhealthy foods, increasing the consumption of healthier dietary options, and engaging in more physical activity. They reported additional health benefits that were not captured in the quantitative outcomes, such as weight loss, improvements in health markers, and an overall sense of well-being. While some older adults were unable to articulate specific facts on chronic diseases, this did not hinder their understanding of the importance of adopting healthier lifestyle choices. These behavior changes were often framed as internally motivated, goal-oriented efforts, consistent with HealthStart’s SDT framework. One participant described:

    Eating vadai (savory Indian fried snack) … my favorite…I cut down a lot. One day Roti Prata (fried Indian flatbread) I also cut down eh… I think I changed a lot… What they told me I just listen, just keep in mind what they told me, just try my best… I feel that consulting with [YCHV], I feel [I had learnt] something
    [OA02, Male, 60-70 years]

    While many participants credited YCHVs for facilitating conversations that increased their awareness of healthy habits and motivation to make meaningful changes in their daily routines, specific measures or support systems to improve confidence and efficacy in managing one’s health were lacking for some participants. One participant described:

    …about setting targets, there is no point… It is like I am in school and the teacher asked you to follow the timetable, would you?.,. If the patient doesn’t follow, it is of no use as well
    [OA10, Male, 60-70 years]

    Meta-inference development identified 3 key mechanisms of behavior change: (1) relationship-based accountability, (2) culturally contextualized health messaging, and (3) practical problem-solving support. These mechanisms were consistently present in successful cases, with more that can be done in the area of practical measures and support systems, as evidenced by both quantitative goal achievement data and qualitative narratives.

    Digital Health Literacy and Technology Adoption

    Analysis of eHealth Literacy Scale (eHEALS) scores revealed a threshold effect in smartphone health app adoption via follow-up visits by YCHVs. While there was a statistically significant increase in eHEALS scores in the groups that experienced more follow-up sessions, as determined by one-way ANOVA (F2,130=6.06; P=.003), the Tukey post hoc test revealed a statistically significant increase in eHEALS scores in those with more than 1 YCHV follow-up (mean 30.4, SD 8.4; P=.002) compared with those with no follow-up (mean 23.5, SD 8.4) and no significant difference between those with more than 1 YCHV follow-up and those with only 1 YCHV follow-up (mean 26.3, SD 8.7; P=.15). Qualitative data deepened understanding in this area. While there were many participants who already had health apps on their phones and felt there was no significant impact from the program, a number were introduced and oriented to apps of practical use for scheduling appointments with PCPs, tracking, and accomplishing health goals, which they found beneficial.

    The integration of findings suggested that digital health adoption followed a threshold effect, with meaningful improvements occurring only after onboarding, establishing rapport, and providing hands-on guidance.

    Stakeholder Experiences and Program Implementation

    Overall, 81.3% (113/139) of the residents reported feeling “Satisfied” or “Very Satisfied” with the program. A summary of the above outcomes can be found in .

    Qualitatively, older adults appreciated the program for several reasons, including the health knowledge and benefits gained, the support from YCHVs in achieving their health goals, the meaningful connections formed, the opportunity to participate free of charge, and the promotion of healthier lifestyles for both younger and older Singaporeans. The majority of YCHVs expressed that being a lay health volunteer was fulfilling and enriching. Many valued the meaningful connections formed with older adults, the ability to impact their health positively, and the opportunity to acquire health knowledge and interpersonal skills. Most YCHVs reported that they were keen to volunteer again in the program and would encourage their peers to participate. HCVs are also encouraged by YCHVs’ ability to impact older adults’ health positively and to have the opportunity to mentor them as effective health advocates.

    Integration with quantitative satisfaction data revealed that program acceptability was linked to the quality of YCHV-participant relationships and the practical value of health coaching support. The joint analysis of both data types suggested that program success depended on both technical competence and interpersonal effectiveness of YCHVs.

    presents a joint display integrating quantitative results and qualitative themes. Meta-inferences generated through convergence and divergence analysis highlight the mechanisms of change observed in the HealthStart program, particularly the motivational impact of YCHVs’ coaching in reinforcing autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

    Participants who dropped out of the program were analyzed to identify differences between those who completed the program and those who did not. Participants who dropped out of the program were statistically younger in age and had higher baseline PAM-13 scores (Table S5 in ). Individuals with higher baseline confidence in self-managing their health may not perceive the immediate benefits of the program and may therefore experience a higher dropout rate.

    Table 3. Joint display of quantitative, qualitative, and meta-inference findings.
    Outcome Quantitative findings Qualitative insights Meta-inference (integrated interpretation)
    Primary care follow-up Increased from 42.7% preprogram to 84.5% post program (χ²1=43; P<.001). Older adults and minority ethnic groups are more likely to follow up on their care. YCHVs facilitated follow-up by explaining results in lay terms, using participants’ mother tongues, and booking appointments. Older adults and minority groups felt reassured and more confident seeing their GP. Convergence: YCHVs’ personalized, culturally sensitive support improved primary care follow-up, especially among vulnerable groups. By clarifying results and assisting with appointments, they enhanced competence; by fostering trust and encouraging self-directed decisions, they supported autonomy, enabling greater health care engagement.
    Health goal attainment 66.2% (92/139) achieved health goals; higher attainment with ≥2 YCHV follow-ups (z=2.44; P=.02) Participants adopted healthier diets and physical activity routines. YCHVs used motivational interviewing and goal-setting frameworks to encourage behavior change. Convergence: individualized goal-setting built participants’ autonomy and relatedness, translating into sustained health-related lifestyle changes.
    Health knowledge No significant pre–post differences in knowledge (P=.68) or when stratified by number of YCHV follow-up visits (F2,130=0.61; P=.54) While older adults were unable to articulate specific facts on chronic diseases, this did not hinder their understanding of the importance of adopting healthier lifestyle choices. Divergence: health awareness and practices improved despite unchanged knowledge scores, suggesting that formal knowledge tests may not fully capture learning achieved through relational engagement and experiential understanding. High baseline knowledge scores may also reflect a ceiling effect.
    PAM-13 Borderline significant pre-post difference in PAM-13 (P=.05) when stratified by number of YCHV follow-up visits (F2,130=2.07; P=.13) Specific measures or support systems to improve confidence and efficacy in managing one’s health were lacking for some participants. Convergence: the program lacks specific measures targeted at increasing self-efficacy. Social prescription could be a structured approach to address this inadequacy.
    Digital health literacy (eHEALS) No significant change overall; improved among those with ≥1 YCHV follow-up (F2,130=6.06; P=.003) Mixed responses; most older adults had familiarity with health apps, but some required onboarding. Digital health adoption required personalized support. Convergence: digital health adoption followed a threshold effect, with meaningful improvements occurring only after onboarding, establishing rapport, and providing hands-on guidance.
    Acceptability and program satisfaction 81.3% (113/139) reported being satisfied or very satisfied. Older adults and YCHVs valued HealthStart as personable, supportive, and culturally accessible. YCHVs felt well-prepared and found the experience fulfilling. HCVs noted that the program enhanced patient-centered care and strengthened follow-up. Convergence: positive quantitative ratings and rich qualitative testimonials underscore HealthStart’s acceptability and relevance to stakeholders.

    aYHCV: youth community health volunteer.

    bPAM-13: Patient Activation Measure-13.

    ceHEALS: eHealth Literacy Scale.

    dHCV: health care volunteer.

    eGP: general practitioner.

    Principal Findings

    This mixed methods evaluation of HealthStart demonstrated that a structured, layperson-led, intergenerational health coaching intervention program was both feasible and acceptable to older adults and YCHVs, and effective at improving primary care follow-up rates and supporting behavior change. Our analysis revealed both the measurable impacts of the intervention and the underlying mechanisms that facilitated these changes, while also highlighting important considerations for future community health initiatives.

    Primary Outcome

    The postprogram PCP follow-up rate was 84.5%, higher than previously reported rates in health screening programs [,], with a significant increase among older participants and minority ethnicities. Older adults and minority race groups have been shown to have lower screening follow-up rates than younger age and majority race groups in previous studies []. HealthStart deliberately linked YCHVs with older adults who spoke the same mother tongue and provided an educational booklet in the older adult’s mother tongue to facilitate accessibility, communication, and understanding, which likely helped reduce age and racial inequity. This finding is consistent with those from similar community health initiatives [], which underscore the importance of culturally and linguistically appropriate support.

    Integrating Study Findings With the Theory of Change

    By mapping quantitative outcomes onto the Theory of Change and examining qualitative data for mechanisms of action, we offer insight into why HealthStart achieved its desired outcomes.

    Setting a lifestyle goal was a mandatory requirement for all participants. The health goal attainment rate was 66.2%, with individuals being more likely to achieve them if they had more YCHV follow-ups; the majority of goals centered on improving one’s diet or physical activity. A total of 54.5% of a group of 33 participants achieved their set health goal in a previous community outreach health coaching program conducted by certified health coaches in Missouri []. This study revealed similar rates of health goal attainment among older adults who received abnormal health screening results, with their postscreening journey facilitated by YCHVs. The qualitative findings highlighted a key takeaway of the program being understanding, planning for, and achieving healthy lifestyle changes, facilitated by health coaching. As encompassed by the SDT framework [], the program built on residents’ autonomy through individualized goal-setting and competence through health knowledge, self-efficacy, and digital health literacy to achieve health-related lifestyle changes.

    Sharing knowledge about their health condition, tips on how to manage it, and onboarding relevant health digital apps was a core component of the curriculum YCHVs underwent and subsequently engaged participants with during their service in HealthStart. While there was no significant change in the pre-post scores in knowledge, qualitative analysis revealed that participants shared increased awareness and practice of healthy habits in domains such as diet and exercise. The participants in this study were noted to have high baseline knowledge (8.81/12, SD 1.58) and high baseline PAM-13 scores (68.8/100, SD 1.56), reflecting readiness to adopt new behaviors but potentially having difficulty sustaining change. The lack of a statistically significant difference could also reflect a ceiling effect of both scores []. Additionally, research shows that only specific aspects of higher level health literacy, such as communicative and critical health literacy, are associated with health-related lifestyle behaviors []. A knowledge score on general chronic conditions may not have reflected this change that occurred in participants. The qualitative analysis also revealed areas in which the program could be improved in supporting participants’ confidence and self-efficacy. A key recommendation was to consider social prescription, a structured system that allows YCHVs to link participants to community resources that can better support and sustain their goals for healthy living [], which is planned to be implemented in future iterations of the program.

    While there was no significant overall improvement in digital health literacy scores, subgroup analysis showed improvement among those with ≥1 YCHV follow-up (F2,130=6.06; P=.003). The findings suggest that onboarding digital health apps may be sufficient to impact health behavior. The qualitative findings support this; several participants set goals to learn digital health apps so that they could track their health-promoting behaviors or connect with a group or health system to sustain healthy behaviors. Previous research corroborates the need for initial support and familiarization with digital apps for older adults, as this lowers the barrier for adoption of digital health, which in turn can reshape health-seeking behaviors and lifestyles [,]. Therefore, the integration of digital health coaching into HealthStart reflects not only a programmatic innovation but also a response to national and global priorities around digital inclusion for older adults. As platforms like HealthHub become increasingly central to Singapore’s preventive health ecosystem, programs like HealthStart offer a scalable and person-centered model to bridge the digital divide and empower seniors to take greater ownership of their health.

    Our findings substantiate HealthStart’s Theory of Change and its SDT underpinnings. Participants’ narratives highlighted the 3 SDT psychological needs, increased autonomy, competence, and relatedness, which are associated with sustained behavior change and health engagement. The increase in PCP follow-up rate was primarily influenced by individually tailored goal setting and relationship building, which leveraged motivational interviewing to support intrinsic motivation. The program’s primary outcome was, to a lesser extent, influenced by digital health onboarding and possibly improvements in health awareness and practices. Participants’ self-efficacy could have been enhanced with a structured social prescription framework.

    Acceptability and Feasibility

    High satisfaction scores were reported by older adults participating in the program (81.3%), and qualitative reports demonstrated the acceptability and appreciation for the program from both volunteers and older adults. YCHVs felt it was a rich experience and expressed interest in volunteering in similar programs again. Older adults valued the new health insights gained and reported improvements in their health and lifestyles. A qualitative study in Canada, which integrated community volunteers as extensions of the primary care team to support older adults, yielded similar findings. These community volunteers deepened the primary care team’s understanding of their patients and facilitated the delivery of person-centered care, demonstrating the potential for integrating community volunteers into the primary care setting []. A separate study conducted in Canada revealed that community volunteers can play a role in increasing older adults’ understanding of community resources and navigating the system []. YCHVs are potentially untapped resources that can effectively engage and promote healthier living among older adults.

    Given the effectiveness, acceptability, potential reach, and adoption of HealthStart, the evaluation demonstrates the potential to scale community programs involving laypersons in population health initiatives []. Program sustainability is further strengthened by collaborative work with local grassroots organizations and alignment with the national strategic context of promoting healthier aging []. However, our findings also highlight the importance of adequate volunteer training, attention to cultural and linguistic matching, and the potential application of a structured social prescription framework based on individualized preintervention health and social needs to promote sustainable health behaviors.

    Strengths and Limitations

    This study’s mixed methods approach is a notable strength, allowing triangulation of data to capture both the breadth and depth of HealthStart’s impact, including experiences that standard instruments cannot easily quantify. However, this study has several limitations. First, the observed improvements could not be attributed to the program due to the absence of a control group. More rigorous designs, such as quasi-experimental or step-wedge trials, can be considered in future research to establish causality. Second, the majority of the studies’ quantitative outcomes were based on self-reported scales. This may not have adequately captured the depth and nuance behind participants’ motivation and progress as described in the qualitative arm. Future studies may adopt a sequential design with follow-up qualitative research conducted for each quantitative finding and corroborate the findings with other objective data, such as electronic medical records, biometric measures (eg, blood pressure, weight, and HbA1c), field observations, and multimodal assessments, including neurophysiological changes, cognitive, behavioral outcomes, and integration of caregiver perspectives as secondary informants that enhance understanding of health impact to older adults beyond traditional measures []. Additionally, selection bias may be present in YCHVs who completed the program, potentially influencing overall program outcomes such as goal achievement, participant, and volunteer satisfaction.

    Conclusions

    This study demonstrated the feasibility of using YCHVs and SDT principles to improve PCP follow-up rates and promote healthier lifestyles among older adults participating in community health screening. The high acceptability of this model among stakeholders highlights the potential of harnessing laypersons, an untapped and valuable community resource, in population health initiatives.

    We would like to acknowledge the contributions of members of the Singapore General Hospital Division of Population Health and Integrated Care, health screening participants, and community partners, including Sou Kalon, a public health researcher who helped refine the manuscript. The authors used ChatGPT (OpenAI) for grammatical refinement and language polishing. All conceptual content, data interpretation, and conclusions are the sole responsibility of the authors.

    The study was funded by Singapore’s National Medical Research Council under the SingHealth Regional Health System PULSES Centre Grant (NMRC/CG/C027/2017_SHS), the Healthy, Empowered and Active Living (HEAL) Fund, the Infocomm Media Development Authority Digital for Life Fund, Singapore Ministry of Health’s National Medical Research Council Population Health Research Grant (PHRGTC-7-0001), and SingHealth Academic Medicine HEART grant (AM/HRT025/2023). The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.

    The datasets used in this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

    KSY, ASTK, XH, JXL, MHL, LPZT, NHWN, AJYT, CHL, LLL, and KYYN were involved in the conceptualization and design of the implementation framework. ASTK, XH, MHL, LPZT, JSM, MRR, YK, SQL, ASYC, JJ, JYRC, EWS, and TCEC were involved in the methodology, investigation, project administration, and data curation. KSY, ASTK, JXL, and YHK performed formal analysis in the quantitative section. KSY, ASTK, ASYC, JJ, JYRC, EWS, TCEC, YHK, and CHL conducted formal thematic analysis in the qualitative section. KSY and ASTK prepared and wrote the original draft of the article, and all authors were involved in reviewing and editing the article. KSY, XH, JXL, MHL, LPZT, NHWN, AJYT, and KYYN were involved in funding acquisition. KSY, NHWN, AJYT, LLL, and KYYN supervised the project administration. CHL, LLL, and KYYN supervised the overall direction of the research.

    None declared.

    Edited by Amy Schwartz; submitted 20.Apr.2025; peer-reviewed by Pattrawadee Makmee, Reenu Singh, Temitope Kayode, Tope Amusa; accepted 31.Oct.2025; published 08.Dec.2025.

    © Ka Shing Yow, Audrey Shu Ting Kwan, Xiaoting Huang, Jie Xin Lim, Meng Han Lim, Lynn Pei Zhen Teo, Juliana Shariq Mujtaba, Muhammad Razzan Razaki, Yihan Khoo, Si Qi Lim, Alicia Shi Yao Chee, Jed Jasman, Jasmine Yee Ru Cheng, Elliott Weizhi Sim, Thaddeus Chi En Cheong, Nerice Heng Wen Ngiam, Angeline Jie-Yin Tey, Yu Heng Kwan, Chee Hsiang Liow, Lian Leng Low, Kennedy Yao Yi Ng. Originally published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (https://www.jmir.org), 8.Dec.2025.

    This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work, first published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (ISSN 1438-8871), is properly cited. The complete bibliographic information, a link to the original publication on https://www.jmir.org/, as well as this copyright and license information must be included.

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  • Paramount hostile WBD bid to unseat Netflix: What to expect

    Paramount hostile WBD bid to unseat Netflix: What to expect

    David Ellison at Netflix’s “America’s Team: The Gambler and His Cowboys” at The Egyptian Theatre on August 11, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

    Gilbert Flores | Variety | Getty Images

    Paramount Skydance laid out its plan Monday to convince Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders that it’s a better buyer for the company than Netflix. The hostile bid kicks off a tug-of-war that could get complicated.

    Paramount has officially launched a tender offer for current WBD shares at $30 per share, all cash. That bid is backed by $41 billion in equity financing. The remainder will be money from RedBird Capital and Jared Kushner’s Affinity Partners. Paramount also has $54 billion in debt commitments from Bank of America, Citi and Apollo Global Management.

    Paramount’s tender offer will be open for 20 business days, Paramount Chief Stratey Officer Andy Gordon said during a conference call for investors Monday. Warner Bros. Discovery has 10 days to respond, and after the 20 business days are up, Paramount has the option to extend the deadline to keep the offer open for WBD shareholders, Gordon said.

    During this time, any shareholder of WBD can sell its shares to Paramount for $30. If Paramount buys 51% of outstanding shares, it would control the company.

    “We do believe the [Paramount] offer should garner meaningful traction,” Raymond James equity analyst Ric Prentiss wrote in a note to clients. “That said, we believe that Netflix is committed to this deal; if [Paramount] seems to be gaining traction, we would not be surprised to see a reaction.”

    That reaction could come in the form of an increased Netflix offer, thought Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos didn’t mention as much when speaking Monday at the UBS Global Media and Communications Conference.

    A prolonged battle could eventually invite lawsuits or proxy fights that would demand full shareholder votes.

    The WBD board said in a statement Monday it “is not modifying its recommendation with respect to the agreement with Netflix.” It advised shareholders “not to take any action at this time with respect to Paramount Skydance’s proposal.”

    Still, the board will “carefully review and consider Paramount Skydance’s offer in accordance with the terms of Warner Bros. Discovery’s agreement with Netflix, Inc.,” the board said in its statement.

    Making a case

    If WBD shareholders seem to be convinced that Paramount’s is the superior bid, Warner Bros. Discovery management could restart friendly discussions with Paramount to make sure it’s getting the best deal possible.

    Paramount CEO David Ellison told CNBC’s David Faber on Monday that the company’s $30-per-share offer was not its “best and final,” suggesting Paramount is open to paying more for WBD if discussions began again.

    Ellison hopes to convince WBD shareholders that a $30-per-share, all-cash offer is more valuable than Netflix’s $27.75-per-share, cash-and-stock offer for WBD’s streaming and studio assets.

    Ellison told CNBC Monday he values the linear cable networks, which aren’t part of Netflix’s bid, at just $1 per share. WBD internally has valued that business at about $3 per share, CNBC previously reported.

    If WBD reaches a deal with Paramount, WBD would owe Netflix $2.8 billion as a breakup fee — meaning Paramount may have to increase its bid, or agree to pay the fee, to adjust for the added cost.

    Regulatory jitters

    Ellison said Monday that Paramount’s odds for regulatory approval, combined with what he views as a higher bid, should sway shareholders that the WBD board made a mistake in choosing Netflix’s offer.

    A Netflix-HBO max combination would create a streamer “at such a scale that it would be bad for Hollywood and bad for the consumer,” said Ellison, noting it would be “anticompetitive in every way you fundamentally look at it.”

    Sarandos disagreed.

    “We’re super confident we’re going to get it across the line and finish,” Sarandos said Monday at the UBS conference.

    Sarandos also jabbed Paramount’s estimate of $6 billion in synergies, noting those potential cost cuts would likely mean job losses.

    “We’re not cutting jobs, we’re making jobs,” Sarandos said.

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  • ECB criticises Italy's revised proposal on gold reserves, worries about central bank independence – Reuters

    1. ECB criticises Italy’s revised proposal on gold reserves, worries about central bank independence  Reuters
    2. Property of the people? ECB says Italy’s gold isn’t political treasure  Euronews.com
    3. Meloni’s Brothers of Italy picks fight with Bank of Italy over gold reserves  politico.eu
    4. Government MPs soften claim on Italian central bank’s gold to avoid ECB criticism  whbl.com
    5. Ripple News: Will XRP Become Europe’s Neutral Bridge? Italy’s Gold Grab Renews Debate  TradingView

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  • Boeing finalizes $4.7B acquisition of key 737 Max supplier Spirit AeroSystems

    Boeing finalizes $4.7B acquisition of key 737 Max supplier Spirit AeroSystems

    Boeing said Monday that it has completed a $4.7 billion purchase of key supplier Spirit AeroSystems, which builds fuselages for the giant aerospace company’s 737 Max jetliners, including an Alaska Airlines aircraft that suffered a door-panel blowout last year.

    The deal, in the works for over a year, brings Boeing’s largest provider of spare parts in-house. CEO Kelly Ortberg called it a “pivotal moment” for the company’s future.

    “As we welcome our new teammates and bring our two companies together, our focus is on maintaining stability so we can continue delivering high quality airplanes, differentiated services, and advanced defense capabilities for our customers and the industry,” Ortberg said in a statement.

    Boeing previously owned Wichita, Kansas-based Spirit but spun it off in 2005. Reabsorbing the company, which is not related to Spirit Airlines, reverses a longtime Boeing strategy of outsourcing major work on its passenger planes, an approach that faced mounting criticism in recent years as manufacturing problems at Spirit disrupted production and delivery of popular Boeing jetliners, including 737s and 787s.

    When Boeing announced in July 2024 that it planned to reacquire Spirit, it positioned the move as a step toward improving quality and safety. Concerns about safety came to a head almost six months earlier, after the door panel flew off the Alaska Airlines plane as it traveled 16,000 feet (4,876 meters) over Oregon.

    The mishap left a gaping hole in the side of the jetliner, but no one was seriously injured. Investigators with the National Transportation Safety Board later said that four bolts that help secure door panels were missing from the Alaska jet after repair work at a Boeing factory.

    The finding renewed questions about Boeing’s safety culture and came as the company confronted an ongoing criminal case over two earlier fatal crashes involving its Max jetliners.

    Those crashes, which happened off the coast of Indonesia and in Ethiopia less than five months apart in 2018 and 2019, killed 346 people and led to a worldwide grounding of the 737 Max for nearly two years. The Justice Department accused Boeing of deceiving regulators about a flight-control system that was later implicated in the crashes.

    The criminal case was resolved just last month, when a federal judge in Texas approved the Justice Department’s request to dismiss the charge as part of a deal with Boeing. In exchange, Boeing agreed to pay or invest an additional $1.1 billion in fines, compensation for the crash victims’ families, and internal safety and quality measures.

    The total value of the Spirit acquisition is around $8.3 billion, Boeing has said. Shares of Boeing rose roughly 2% in midday trading Monday.

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  • Demystifying Antiplatelet Therapy Duration Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

    Demystifying Antiplatelet Therapy Duration Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

    Quick Takes

    • Striking a judicious balance between the risks of ischemia and bleeding is challenging during management of patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with optimal dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT).
    • The intensity and duration of antiplatelet therapy needs to be personalized on the basis of patient risk profiles, including bleeding and ischemic risks.
    • Despite emerging evidence for abbreviated DAPT in specific situations, 12 months of DAPT would remain the default for most patients with ACS not at high bleeding risk, especially those who have undergone PCI.

    The optimal management of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) in patients presenting with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remains a dynamic and evolving area. Striking a delicate balance between ischemic protection and the risk of bleeding complications is the key challenge.1 Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), including patients with ACS requiring PCI, have almost consistently demonstrated that reduced DAPT durations are not associated with increased rates of ischemic events.2 Notably, compared with standard DAPT, the patients assigned to short DAPT durations experienced much less major bleeding.2 The assessment of DAPT in RCTs has progressively involved shorter durations (1-to-3 months of DAPT) followed by P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy, compared with standard 12-month DAPT.3 Against this background and in light of the substantial advance in stent technology and procedural optimization, it has been proposed that stopping aspirin at discharge and continuing potent P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy may be as safe and effective as standard prolonged DAPT for patients admitted for ACS who were successfully revascularized by PCI without significant residual coronary artery disease.

    The NEO-MINDSET (Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Followed by Antiplatelet Monotherapy in the Setting of Acute Coronary Syndromes) study investigated the effects of immediate postprocedural aspirin withdrawal in patients taking DAPT who underwent PCI for ACS.4 The study involved 3,400 patients within the first 4 days of hospitalization following a successful PCI, who were randomly assigned to either discontinuation of aspirin and continuation of a potent P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy (ticagrelor or prasugrel) or to receive DAPT that included aspirin and a potent P2Y12 inhibitor for 12 months. The primary endpoint events (death from any cause, myocardial infarction [MI], stroke, or urgent revascularization) occurred in 7% of patients in the monotherapy group and 5.5% in the DAPT group (pnoninferiority = 0.11). Major or clinically relevant nonmajor bleeding occurred in 2% of patients in the monotherapy group and 4.9% of patients in the DAPT group, and stent thrombosis occurred in 0.7% and 0.2% in the matched groups. These findings indicate that immediate P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy with withdrawal of aspirin is not as protective as DAPT for ischemic events in patients with ACS after PCI, even though it does reduce bleeding. Whereas reductions in major bleeding despite numerically increased ischemic events may be appealing in patients at high bleeding risk (HBR), this trade-off appears less favorable in patients without HBR. Only one-fifth of patients in the NEO-MINDSET study were classified as at HBR. Ongoing trials, such as LEGACY (Less Bleeding by Omitting Aspirin in Non-ST-segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients), will likely shed light on unaddressed questions.5

    The TARGET-FIRST (Evaluation of a Modified Anti-Platelet Therapy Associated With Low-dose DES Firehawk in Acute Myocardial Infarction Patients Treated With Complete Revascularization Strategy) trial included patients who had successfully undergone PCI with advanced drug-eluting stents within 7 days of MI and had completed 1 month of DAPT without ischemic complications or major bleeding. After randomization, patients were assigned to receive either P2Y12 receptor inhibitor monotherapy or DAPT for 11 months. P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy was noninferior to DAPT for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular outcomes, and superior in reducing clinically relevant bleeding, supporting de-escalation in carefully selected patients at low risk.6 No previous RCT has assessed early aspirin discontinuation in patients with acute MI who achieve early, complete revascularization with modern stents. These results reflect the benefits of modern stents, high procedural success, and optimal medical therapy, making early aspirin discontinuation feasible in this select population.

    The optimal antiplatelet therapy is not well established for patients who have undergone complex PCI procedures and are at high risk of ischemic events. The TAILORED-CHIP (TAILored Versus COnventional AntithRombotic StratEgy IntenDed for Complex HIgh-Risk PCI) trial included 2,018 patients with high-risk anatomical or clinical characteristics undergoing complex PCI.7 They were randomly assigned to receive either standard DAPT (clopidogrel plus aspirin for 12 months) or early escalation (low-dose ticagrelor at 60 mg twice daily plus aspirin for 6 months), followed by late de-escalation (clopidogrel monotherapy for 6 months). Overall results indicated that there was no significant difference between tailored therapy and standard DAPT in terms of the incidence of major ischemic events at 12 months. However, with tailored therapy, the incidence of clinically relevant bleeding was considerably higher. This finding challenges the notion that more is better even in carefully selected patients at high ischemic risk undergoing complex PCI procedures.

    The ongoing theme across all trials is to strike a judicious balance between risks of ischemia and bleeding. The trend is toward personalized antiplatelet therapy, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach. Patient risk profiles, including bleeding and ischemic risks, are crucial for determining the intensity and duration of therapy. It is critical to use bleeding risk scores and shared decision-making to help patients and clinicians weigh potential benefits and harms of different antiplatelet regimens. Despite emerging evidence for abbreviated DAPT in specific situations, 12 months of DAPT remains the default for most patients with ACS not at HBR, especially those who have undergone PCI.

    References

    1. Byrne RA, Rossello X, Coughlan JJ, et al. 2023 ESC guidelines for the management of acute coronary syndromes. Eur Heart J. 2023;44(38):3720-3826. doi:10.1093/eurheartj/ehad191
    2. Valgimigli M, Landi A, Angiolillo DJ, et al. Demystifying the contemporary role of 12-month dual antiplatelet therapy after acute coronary syndrome. Circulation. 2024;150(4):317-335. doi:10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.124.069012
    3. Giacoppo D, Matsuda Y, Fovino LN, et al. Short dual antiplatelet therapy followed by P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy vs. prolonged dual antiplatelet therapy after percutaneous coronary intervention with second-generation drug-eluting stents: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Eur Heart J. 2021;42(4):308-319. doi:10.1093/eurheartj/ehaa739
    4. Guimarães PO, Franken M, Tavares CAM, et al. Early withdrawal of aspirin after PCI in acute coronary syndromes. N Engl J Med. Published online August 31, 2025. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2507980
    5. van der Sangen NMR, Küçük IT, Sivanesan S, et al. Less bleeding by omitting aspirin in non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome patients: rationale and design of the LEGACY study. Am Heart J. 2023;265:114-120. doi:10.1016/j.ahj.2023.07.011
    6. Tarantini G, Honton B, Paradies V, et al. Early discontinuation of aspirin after PCI in low-risk acute myocardial infarction. N Engl J Med. Published online August 31, 2025. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2508808
    7. Kang DY, Wee SB, Ahn JM, et al. Temporal modulation of antiplatelet therapy in high-risk patients undergoing complex percutaneous coronary intervention: the TAILORED-CHIP randomized clinical trial. Eur Heart J. Published online August 31, 2025. doi:10.1093/eurheartj/ehaf652


    Clinical Topics:
    Acute Coronary Syndromes, Invasive Cardiovascular Angiography and Intervention, Interventions and ACS, Stable Ischemic Heart Disease


    Keywords:
    Percutaneous Coronary Intervention, Acute Coronary Syndrome, Dual Anti-Platelet Therapy, Ischemia

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  • Unlocking More Matches for Stem Cell Transplants – University of Miami

    1. Unlocking More Matches for Stem Cell Transplants  University of Miami
    2. NMDP℠ Demonstrates Scientific Leadership in Expanding Patient Access to Lifesaving Cell Therapy at ASH 2025  BioSpace
    3. Potential Game-Changing Impact on Mismatched Unrelated Blood Cell Transplantation  MedPage Today
    4. Survival Similar With MMUD Grafts in GVHD Care Regardless of Match Level  CancerNetwork
    5. Protective regimen allows successful stem cell transplant even without close genetic match between donor and recipient  Medical Xpress

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  • Microbiota-Based MaaT013 Shows Strong Efficacy in Refractory GI-aGVHD | Targeted Oncology

    Microbiota-Based MaaT013 Shows Strong Efficacy in Refractory GI-aGVHD | Targeted Oncology

    Primary analysis data from the phase 3 ARES trial (NCT04769895) show that the microbiota-based therapeutic MaaT013 (Zervyteg) generated compelling efficacy signals and acceptable safety in patients with acute graft-vs-host disease with gastrointestinal involvement (GI-aGVHD) who are refractory to corticosteroids and ruxolitinib (Jakafi).1 Results were presented by Florent Malard, MD, PhD, professor of Hematology at Saint Antoine Hospital and Sorbonne University, at the 67th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition in Orlando, Florida.

    As of the data cutoff on November 11, 2024, the study met its primary end point with a GI overall response rate (GI-ORR) of 62% (95% CI, 49%–74%) among 66 patients treated with MaaT013 on day 28 of treatment, significantly exceeding the historical control of 22% (P <.0001). The all-organ ORR was 64% (95% CI, 51%–75%). Notably, both GI and all-organ responses exhibited a similar average duration of response (DOR) of 6.4 months (95% CI, 4.8–8.0).

    Furthermore, data describing key secondary end points revealed that responses were maintained through later time points. At day 56 and month 3, the GI-ORRs were 49% and 44%, respectively; likewise, all-organ ORRs were 48% and 44%. Responses across all time points showed exceptionally high rates of complete response and very good partial response.

    Importantly, the deep and durable responses translated into promising survival benefits. A Kaplan-Meier graph displayed a separation of curves between responders and nonresponders beginning shortly after the first administration of MaaT013, widening substantially over the course of 1 year with responders maintaining a clear survival advantage over time. Median overall survival (OS) data were immature at the time of analysis, but the estimated probability of survival at 1 year was 54%, a clinically meaningful improvement for this patient population with historically poor clinical outcomes.

    Safety and Tolerability

    MaaT013’s safety profile was determined to be acceptable. There were 157 serious treatment-emergent adverse events (AEs) reported across 76% of patients, with the most common being escherichia sepsis, general physical health deterioration, and septic shock.

    There was a total of 34 treatment-related AEs across 29% of patients, which mainly comprised various bacterial infections and GI disorders. Of these events, 7 were considered serious. There were 26 fatal AEs, with 1 event of septic shock determined to be related to MaaT013 by investigators.

    About MaaT013 and the ARES Trial

    The phase 3 ARES trial is a single-arm, multicenter, open-label trial in Europe investigating MaaT013, a pooled allogeneic fecal microbiotherapy, as salvage therapy in adult patients with refractory GI-aGVHD.2 The primary end point of the trial is GI-ORR at day 28, assessed by an independent review committee (IRC); secondary end points include GI-ORR at day 56 and month 3, all-organ ORR at day 28, and DOR per IRC and investigator assessment, as well as OS. In the study, MaaT013 was administered as a rectal suspension as a 150-mL enema.

    Patients were included if they had undergone allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant, experienced an aGVHD episode with lower GI symptoms per MAGIC guidelines, and were resistant to systemic steroids and either resistant or intolerant to ruxolitinib. Key exclusion criteria included having active cytomegalovirus colitis, lines of aGVHD treatment other than steroids and ruxolitinib, hyperacute GVHD, and active uncontrolled infection.

    Of the 66 total patients, the majority (77%) had aGVHD with involvement limited to the GI tract. Others had GI and skin involvement (17%), GI and liver involvement (3%), and involvement of all 3 organs (3%). Regarding the hypothesized mechanisms of action driving responses in the skin and liver, Malard offered some preliminary insights based on earlier research.

    “So far, based on this study, we don’t have the translational data to investigate how this is working, but from the previous [phase 2] HERACLES study [NCT03225937], we already have some data on the fact that we have some systemic immunomodulatory effect of the drug, with some decrease in the proinflammatory cytokine at the systemic level, and also an increase in essential fatty acid… in the serum of the patient,” Malard explained in the question-and-answer session. “We are also going to evaluate in another study all the immune cell subsets, in particular Tregs and so on, to find if this is how it’s working.”

    MaaT013 is currently under regulatory review by the EMA following submission of a marketing authorization application in June 2025, with a decision regarding approval anticipated in the second half of 2026.3 If approved, MaaT013 would become the first microbiome-based therapy for the treatment of this high-need disease.

    DISCLOSURES: Malard declared receiving honoraria from Priothera, Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Therakos, Sanofi, Novartis, AstraZeneca, and MSD.

    REFERENCES
    1. Malard, F. MaaT013 for ruxolitinib-refractory acute graft-versus-host disease with gastrointestinal involvement: Results from the ARES phase III trial. Presented at: 67th American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting and Exposition; December 6–9, 2025; Orlando, Florida. Abstract 817.‌
    2. MaaT013 as salvage therapy in ruxolitinib-refractory GI-aGVHD patients (ARES). ClinicalTrials.gov. Updated October 17, 2024. Accessed December 6, 2025. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04769895
    3. November 3, 2025: Maat Pharma announces positive phase 3 results evaluating Xervyteg® (MaaT013) in acute graft-versus-host disease selected for oral presentation at ASH Congress 2025. News release. MaaT Pharma. November 3, 2025. Accessed December 7, 2025. https://tinyurl.com/su2wha2y

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  • Pharmacy Deserts: A Crisis Health Care Providers Can Help Solve with Technology and Teamwork

    Pharmacy Deserts: A Crisis Health Care Providers Can Help Solve with Technology and Teamwork

    A quiet emergency is taking shape across America’s health care landscape, one defined not by new diseases, but by disappearing access. Pharmacy deserts are an escalating public health crisis in the US. Nearly 46% of US counties lack convenient pharmacy access, leaving over 16 million Americans without nearby options for essential medications. This access gap reflects a deeper inflection point: the traditional retail pharmacy model is no longer sustainable in many communities, pushing health care providers and technology partners to rethink how and where care is delivered.

    As major retail pharmacy chains shutter thousands of stores, people in affected areas must travel over an hour to get prescriptions, vaccines, or basic health care needs. These closures are caused by a combination of financial pressure, industry consolidation, and changing consumer expectations, all of which creates a perfect storm that could leave millions of people behind.

    This growing inaccessibility has a tangible cost. Medication nonadherence, often driven by lack of pharmacy access, adds $290 billion annually in avoidable healthcare expenses, including $100 billion in preventable hospitalizations.3 Rising drug costs and fragmented care coordination are now the leading forces behind declining adherence, intensifying disparities in chronic disease management and preventive care. When patients can’t access or refill prescriptions easily, the consequences ripple across the healthcare system, leading to poorer outcomes and higher costs.

    Technology: Bridging the Accessibility and Care Gap

    Digital innovation is essential to reversing this trend. Telepharmacy, mobile pharmacy apps, and artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled dispensing can dramatically extend reach, bringing pharmacists to patients virtually, 24/7. An analysis by Accenture shows telehealth visits are now 38 times higher than prepandemic levels, demonstrating that patients are ready for digital engagement.4

    Meanwhile, 50% of OTC sales are projected to occur online within the next 3 to 4 years, and mobile pharmacy purchases are growing at a 19% compound annual growth rate through 2026. These shifts, along with home delivery, offer a blueprint for equitable access beyond physical locations. Yet technology alone isn’t the answer. Its impact depends on how providers integrate digital tools into care coordination and patient engagement models.

    Reimagining Pharmacies as Frontline Care Hubs

    For the pharmacies that remain, they must evolve from the last line of defense to the front line of care. Integrating pharmacies earlier in the care journey and connecting patients, payers, providers, and pharmacists creates a unified ecosystem that supports adherence and preventive health. Research shows that patients who receive pharmacy-based medical interventions have 3% higher medication adherence and 2.7% fewer emergency visits than those who do not.3

    For providers, stepping directly into pharmacy access offers both necessity and opportunity. As value-based care expands, providers are increasingly accountable for outcomes that hinge on medication adherence. Direct partnerships, or even owned digital pharmacy models, allow them to close last-mile access gaps, reduce readmissions, and deliver continuous care outside traditional settings.

    By expanding pharmacists’ roles to include services such as chronic disease monitoring, vaccinations, and medication therapy management, we can build stronger, value-based care models rooted in accessibility and trust.

    Feeding the Appetite for Change

    This type of change requires collaboration between providers, pharmacists, and technology innovators. Encouragingly, Accenture research shows nearly 80% of US adults say they are willing to share data within connected health systems to gain better access and coordinated experiences.5 The urgency is clear: Access is declining fastest where social determinants already strain health equity. Providers who act now can redefine their role not only as caregivers but also as enablers of consistent, affordable access to medication.

    Ultimately, pharmacy deserts are a symptom of systemic fragmentation, and the cure lies in coordinated, technology-enabled care models that meet patients where they are. By transforming pharmacies into digital-first health access points, we can bridge gaps, improve outcomes, and build a healthier, more equitable future for all.

    REFERENCES
    1. Study finds 46 percent of US counties have pharmacy deserts. News release. National Community Pharmacists Association. August 28, 2024. Accessed December 8, 2025. https://www.ncpa.org/newsroom/qam/2024/08/28/study-finds-46-percent-us-counties-have-pharmacy-deserts
    2. Nowosielski B. Pharmacy deserts prominent in areas of high social vulnerability. Drug Topics. August 23, 2024. Accessed December 8, 2025. https://www.drugtopics.com/view/pharmacy-deserts-prominent-in-areas-of-high-social-vulnerability
    3. Kwan N. The impact of pharmacy deserts. US Pharm. 2024;49(4):32-36.
    4. Bestesennyy O, Gilbert G, Harris A, Rost J. Telehealth: a quarter-trillion-dollar post-COVID-19 reality? McKinsey & Company. July 9, 2021. Accessed December 8, 2025. https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/healthcare/our-insights/telehealth-a-quarter-trillion-dollar-post-covid-19-reality
    5. Accenture study finds growing demand for digital health services revolutionizing delivery models: patients, doctors + machines. News release. Accenture. March 6, 2018. Accessed December 8, 2025. https://newsroom.accenture.com/news/2018/accenture-study-finds-growing-demand-for-digital-health-services-revolutionizing-delivery-models-patients-doctors-machines

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  • Tern leukemia drug results likely to catch investor attention

    Tern leukemia drug results likely to catch investor attention

    Adam Feuerstein is a senior writer and biotech columnist, reporting on the crossroads of drug development, business, Wall Street, and biotechnology. He is also a co-host of the weekly biotech podcast The Readout Loud and author of the newsletter Adam’s Biotech Scorecard. You can reach Adam on Signal at stataf.54.

    ORLANDO, Fla. — Terns Pharmaceuticals reported an update Monday on its targeted leukemia drug that maintained and even boosted molecular response rates in advanced-stage patients. 

    The study results, while still early, are likely to draw even more positive attention from investors who already view the Terns drug as a potential successor to a commercial blockbuster from Novartis. 

    At 24 weeks, four escalating doses of the Terns drug, called TERN-701, achieved a major molecular response of 64% in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia, a slow-growing cancer that starts in myeloid cells. The 28 patients evaluable had already experienced treatment with a median of three drugs.

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  • Hemab Therapeutics Announces Positive Complete Phase 2 Data for Sutacimig in Glanzmann Thrombasthenia at ASH 2025; Plans to Advance to Pivotal Phase 3 Study

    Hemab Therapeutics Announces Positive Complete Phase 2 Data for Sutacimig in Glanzmann Thrombasthenia at ASH 2025; Plans to Advance to Pivotal Phase 3 Study

    Consistent and robust efficacy demonstrated across bleed types, locations, and dose cohorts

    The weekly dosing cohort achieved an estimated 87% reduction in annualized treated bleeding rate (ATBR)

    Results validate potential as the first prophylactic therapy to address the heavy physical and psychosocial burden of Glanzmann thrombasthenia; Phase 3 registration study planned for 2026

    CAMBRIDGE, Mass. and COPENHAGEN, Denmark, Dec. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hemab Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel prophylactic therapeutics for serious, underserved bleeding and thrombotic disorders, today announced positive results from its completed Phase 2 multiple ascending dose (MAD) portion of the CL-101 study of sutacimig for the prophylactic treatment of Glanzmann thrombasthenia (GT).

    The data, presented today in an oral session at the 67th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting in Orlando, demonstrate clinically meaningful efficacy that was consistent across bleed locations, bleed types (spontaneous and traumatic), and dose cohorts evaluated. Based on these results, Hemab plans to advance sutacimig into a pivotal Phase 3 registration study in 2026.

    “These Phase 2 results represent transformational potential for people living with Glanzmann thrombasthenia, who have waited a lifetime for a modern prophylactic treatment,” said Benny Sorensen, MD, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of Hemab. “The clinically meaningful reductions in bleeding demonstrated across this study provide compelling evidence that sutacimig could shift the treatment paradigm from reactive crisis management to prevention. We are moving forward with urgency to bring this therapy to patients who have been overlooked for far too long.”

    “What stands out in these results is the reduction of the most severe bleeding events requiring intensive interventions,” said Paul Saultier, MD, PhD, Head of the French Platelet Reference Center, APHM Hospital de la Timone. “These are the bleeds that bring patients to the hospital and create the greatest burden. Combined with the reductions we saw across different bleed types and anatomical locations, these data suggest sutacimig could provide meaningful benefit for GT patients.”

    Phase 2 Clinical Data Highlights: Hemab’s Phase 2 study of sutacimig (N=34) is intended to address a profound gap in care for GT as there are currently no effective prophylactic treatment options. Sutacimig was assessed at varying doses to determine the optimal regimen for Phase 3. Key findings include:

    • Consistent and clinically meaningful reductions in bleeding: Sutacimig demonstrated robust and clinically meaningful reductions in ATBR across dose cohorts, with an approximate 50% reduction in mean ATBR in the overall efficacy population (N=31). The weekly dosing cohort achieved an estimated 87% reduction in ATBR (95% CI: 80%, 92%). Importantly, efficacy was consistent across all major bleed locations including nose, gum/mouth, and gastrointestinal sites, and demonstrated robust activity against both traumatic and spontaneous bleeding events.
    • Reduction of bleeds requiring high intensity treatment: Participants experienced a 100% reduction in mean ATBR of bleeding events requiring high intensity treatment (defined as those requiring recombinant factor VIIa, platelet transfusions, plasma, cryoprecipitate, or medical procedures) during the treatment period. This represents a meaningful reduction of the most clinically consequential acute bleeding events.
    • Dosing schedule optimization: Analyses indicate that weekly dosing provides consistent exposure across the dosing interval, resulting in optimal clinical response.
    • Safety and tolerability: Overall sutacimig was well tolerated. Adverse events were primarily mild to moderate and either non-specific or typical for patients with GT, with a single related serious adverse event (grade 2 DVT) occurring at the highest dose level (0.9 mg/kg). Anti-drug antibodies impacting PK/PD were observed in five participants; however, titers resolved in one participant with continued dosing, and no associated safety events were reported.
    • Retention: Underscoring the perceived benefit, 82% of participants elected to enter the ongoing long-term extension study.

    Presentation Details

    • Title: Sutacimig, a Novel Bispecific Antibody for Prophylactic Treatment of Glanzmann Thrombasthenia: Analysis of a Phase 2 Study
    • Session: OCCC – W304EFGH
    • Presenter: Paul Saultier, MD, PhD, APHM Hospital de la Timone, France

    *Data as of July 1, 2025.

    About Glanzmann Thrombasthenia
    Glanzmann thrombasthenia (GT) is a severe bleeding disorder marked by debilitating, sometimes life-threatening bleeding episodes. Results from an international Glanzmann’s 360 (GT360) natural history study revealed the substantial burden of this disease: 88% of the 117 participants reported at least one bleed in the previous week, with 34% of those bleeds requiring medical treatment. These bleeding episodes significantly impact patients’ mental health and quality of life, with 67% reporting low mood, 52% reporting emotional problems, and 46% experiencing social isolation. Additionally, 81% of participants reported missing school or work due to bruising or bleeding. To date, there are no effective prophylactic treatment options for GT.

    About Sutacimig (formerly HMB-001)
    Sutacimig is a subcutaneously administered bispecific antibody that binds and stabilizes endogenous Factor VIIa with one antibody arm and binds to TLT-1 on activated platelets with the other arm. This mechanism allows for the accumulation of endogenous Factor VIIa in the body and recruitment of Factor VIIa directly to the surface of the activated platelets, where it facilitates hemostatic plug formation. Sutacimig is designed to be a first-in-class prophylactic treatment for Glanzmann thrombasthenia (GT) with the potential to treat other debilitating bleeding disorders. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted Fast Track Designation and Orphan Drug Designation to sutacimig for the treatment of GT while the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has awarded it designation under the Innovative Licensing and Access Pathway (ILAP). For more information, please visit clinicaltrials.gov (NCT06211634).

    About Hemab Therapeutics
    Hemab is a multiple clinical-asset biotechnology company developing novel prophylactic therapeutics for serious, underserved bleeding and thrombotic disorders. Based in Cambridge, MA, and Copenhagen, Denmark, Hemab is progressing a pipeline of innovative therapeutic solutions, leveraging a variety of cutting-edge technologies and approaches to transform the treatment paradigm for patients with high unmet need. The company’s strategic guidance, Hemab 1-2-5™, targets building a pipeline of development programs to deliver long-awaited innovation for people with high unmet need diseases like Glanzmann thrombasthenia, Factor VII Deficiency, Von Willebrand Disease, and others. Learn more at hemab.com. Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    Media:
    Deerfield
    Peg Rusconi
    [email protected]

    Investors:
    Hemab Therapeutics
    Mads Behrndt
    [email protected]

    SOURCE Hemab Therapeutics


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