Category: 8. Health

  • Consequence of U.S. HIV Funding Cuts Are Showing, Threatening Years of Gains, Say Researchers

    Consequence of U.S. HIV Funding Cuts Are Showing, Threatening Years of Gains, Say Researchers

    Cuts in U.S. funding for HIV prevention programs are already having a notable effect that could result in an increasing number of HIV infections and deaths, unraveling decades of progress, according to research findings presented at a press conference today in advance of the International AIDS Society (IAS) meeting next week in Kigali, Rwanda.

    In Johannesburg, South Africa, after termination in February 2025 of a grant funded through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), HIV testing decreased by 8.5% during the first quarter of 2025 compared with the first quarter of 2024, according to findings presented by Khensani Chauke of the Gauteng Provincial Department of Health in Pretoria. Over the same time period, HIV diagnoses declined by 31% and initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) by 30%.

    In Mozambique, February 2024 to February 2025 comparisons showed a 25% reduction in ART initiation, from approximately 22,000 to 17,000, according to a news release summarizing research that is scheduled to be presented at the IAS meeting, known formally as the 13th IAS Conference on HIV Science. The same research showed that those being treated for AIDS, there was a 38% in reduction in tests of viral loads and similar decrease in test results received, according to the news release. The 2024-to-2025 decreases were larger among children: a 44% reduction in viral load testing and a 71% decrease in test results received.

    Anna Grimsrud, Ph.D., M.D., a technical adviser to IAS who spoke on behalf of the Mozambique study team at the press conference, said that modeling shows that if the current trends continue, new HIV infections will increase 15% in Mozambique by 2030 and deaths related to AIDS will climb by 10%.

    “These findings underscore that stability in funding is essential for maintaining HIV delivery gains,” Grimsrud said at the press conference. “Even short-term interruptions create measurable effects on service access and, ultimately, health outcomes.”

    Jack Stone, Ph.D., an associate professor at the University of Bristol, said that the foreign aid freeze and subsequent waiver have meant a pause in U.S. funding for preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for everybody in sub-Saharan Africa except pregnant and breastfeeding women. Stone said that PEPFAR funding had supported 90% of PrEP initiations. His research focused on what he termed “key groups” that are marginalized and are at heightened risk of acquiring HIV: men who have sex with men, female sex workers, transgender women, and people who inject drugs. According to Stone, at the end of last year, PEPFAR was providing PrEP to approximately 720,000 individuals who were not pregnant or breastfeeding in 28 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Of that number, 200,000 were from the key population groups he mentioned. Stone said his mathematical model shows that the removal of PEPFAR’s provision of PrEP over one year would result in 6,700 new HIV infections among those who would have been on PrEP were it not for the PEPFAR cuts. Factoring in secondary transmission, Stone said the model shows that a one-year pause of PEPFAR-based prep would result in 10,000 additional HIV infections over the next five years.

    Not just Africa

    Although the cutback in PEPFAR funding has mainly affected African countries and programs, the Trump administration’s shuttering of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has affected HIV treatment and prevention programs elsewhere. Meg Stevenson, M.S.P.H., a senior research data analyst at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, presented findings of a survey of HIV organizations in Latin America and the Caribbean that showed 21 of the 24 organizations that received U.S. funding, directly and indirectly, had had their funding suspended. On average, the U.S. funding had accounted for about half of the organizations’ funding. Stevenson said the loss of USAID funding to these organizations translated into a loss of HIV treatment and prevention services for 150,000 people.

    Beatriz Grinsztejn, the IAS president and a leading HIV/AIDS researcher in Brazil, began the press conference with observations about the paradoxical times in which the IAS meeting is taking place. “We are witnessing scientific breakthroughs that could transform prevention and treatment and even bring us closer to a cure,” she said. “On the other hand, these very advances are under threat from massive funding cuts that risk stalling clinical trials, slowing our progressand jeopardizing the progress we have fought so hard to achieve.”

    Funding cuts threaten to undermine the HIV infrastructure that has brought the world to a promising point in the HIV response, Grinsztejn said. “Millions of lives and decades of progress hang in the balance.”

    Zackie Achmat, a South African AIDS activist and a member of the Global HIV Treatment Coalition, spoke about the HIV epidemic being “so close, so close to being ended.”

    Achmat added, “And yet, today we sit with 20 million people in Africa on death row, placed there by an authoritarian regime, that of Donald Trump, the criminally convicted president of the United States.”

    Achmat said the debt service of African countries is more than double the amount that the U.S. gives in foreign aid, exclusive of the money it sends to Israel and Ukraine. He called on China, Brazil, India and Thailand to do more to support HIV prevention and treatment efforts on the continent.

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  • Increased prevalence of cardio-cerebrovascular risk factors during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown: a large, single center, cross-sectional study | BMC Medicine

    Increased prevalence of cardio-cerebrovascular risk factors during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown: a large, single center, cross-sectional study | BMC Medicine

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  • The Best Proteins for Kidney Health & Diabetes

    The Best Proteins for Kidney Health & Diabetes

    • Higher protein intake—especially leucine and lysine—was linked to lower DKD risk in diabetics.
    • Both animal and plant foods offer protective amino acids; variety is key for kidney health.
    • Plant-based proteins with fiber may support blood sugar control and overall kidney function.

    Type 2 diabetes is on the rise, and with it, associated complications, like diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Diabetic kidney disease is the primary cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and a leading contributor to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Chronic kidney disease also raises your risk of heart disease.

    If you have diabetes, you know that protein is essential to help stabilize your blood sugar. But there is evidence suggesting that too much protein, especially from animal sources, raises the risk of kidney disease. Plant protein, however, has been shown to prevent or slow down kidney function decline. With that said, the evidence is inconclusive, and the 2022 Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative states that there is not enough conclusive evidence to recommend one type of protein over another.

    For this reason, the Initiative lumps all types together and recommends that people with diabetes or kidney disease who are not on dialysis restrict their protein intake to 0.8 g/kg of ideal body weight per day. This is also a general recommendation for people without diabetes, though that recommendation may be too low for some people.

    Researchers from Taiwan wanted to take a closer look at proteins and amino acids—the building blocks of protein— and their associations with diabetic kidney disease. They published their findings in Nutrients. Let’s break down what they found.

    How Was This Study Conducted?

    Researchers recruited 378 participants with type 2 diabetes; half were women with an average age of 63. Based on urine tests, participants were split into two groups: those with just diabetes and those with diabetic kidney disease. Of the 378 participants, 237 were categorized as having diabetes without kidney disease, and 141 met the criteria for kidney disease. 

    Through structured interviews with registered dietitians, participants completed 24-hour dietary recalls and food frequency questionnaires at baseline. From their responses, protein amount and types were calculated. They were then placed into one of three categories based on their protein consumption: less than 0.8 grams per kilogram of ideal body weight (Group 1), 0.9-1.2 g/kg (Group 2) and more than 1.3 g/kg (Group 3). 

    Also at baseline, demographics like age, sex, diabetes duration and medication use were captured, along with BMI and waist circumference. Blood pressure was measured, and bloodwork was done for fasting glucose, HbA1c, total cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen and microalbuminuria. Urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), both screenings for kidney disease, were calculated.

    What Did This Study Find?

    Group 1, which had the lowest overall protein intake, also had the lowest mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (78), followed by Group 2 (85) and Group 3 (87). Typically, a normal eGFR is 90 or higher, and 89 to 60 indicates mild loss of kidney function.

    Group 1’s serum creatinine levels also suggested lower renal (kidney) function; they also had the highest fasting blood glucose levels, HbA1c (an average of blood glucose over three months) and microalbumin levels (UACR). 

    Researchers then broke down types of protein into amino acids. Amino acids are what proteins are made of. There are 20 primary amino acids necessary for humans, nine of which are essential amino acids. They’re essential because we need to get them from food, as our bodies cannot make them. 

    What surfaced after statistical analyses were run was that higher overall protein intake, as well as higher intake of certain amino acids—branched-chain (BCAA), aromatic (AAA) and ketogenic amino acids—were all independently associated with a lower risk of diabetic kidney disease. In particular, leucine and lysine, two essential amino acids, were most strongly associated with a lower risk of diabetic kidney disease. 

    Researchers concluded that for non-dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease patients, in addition to the recommended total protein intake, the balance of amino acid patterns should be considered. They suggest that supplementation with branched-chain amino acids and histidine, and restriction of tyrosine, methionine and glutamic acid—all amino acids found in higher concentrations in meat—may serve as nutritional strategies to support kidney function.

    How Does This Apply to Real Life?

    Study authors note that their findings align with previous studies, suggesting that ketogenic amino acids, in particular, leucine and lysine, may help protect against diabetic kidney disease. While found in many foods, leucine and lysine are abundant in: 

    • Dairy, like milk, yogurt and cheese
    • Fish and seafood
    • Legumes
    • Seeds and nuts
    • Meat, like pork, chicken, turkey, venison, bison and lean beef
    • Soy products, like tempeh, tofu and edamame
    • Eggs
    • Whole grains, like quinoa, buckwheat and amaranth

    As you can see, it’s a nice mix of animal and plant proteins that contain these essential amino acids. Whether you have diabetes or not, it’s important to include a variety of protein-rich foods, and plant proteins are definitely worth prioritizing, as they often include fiber and healthy fats. 

    If you want to incorporate more plant-based proteins but aren’t sure where to start, check out our 7-Day Vegetarian Meal Plan for Diabetes. It’s loaded with tasty, plant-based meals and snacks, with some dairy and eggs sprinkled in. 

    If you have diabetes and struggle with maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, consider how much protein you’re eating. Fiber is another important nutrient for controlling blood sugar, and it works even better when combined with protein. Many sources of plant protein will offer both of those nutrients. Combining animal proteins with a plant source is another great way to get protein and fiber into your day. For example, yogurt with fruit and nuts or tuna with veggies are filling, tasty options. 

    Our Expert Take

    This study suggests that people with diabetes may reduce their risk of kidney disease by eating more foods containing leucine and lysine, which are ketogenic amino acids. Because a variety of foods contain these essential amino acids, there is likely something on the list you’ll enjoy. If you typically get most of your protein from meat, try to also include plant-based proteins in your meals and snacks. Eating more plants has been shown to have many benefits, including reducing disease risk, reducing belly fat and improving gut health.

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  • Generic Cancer Drugs Found Failing Quality Standards in Routine Testing – geneonline.com

    1. Generic Cancer Drugs Found Failing Quality Standards in Routine Testing  geneonline.com
    2. Nearly 20% of cancer drugs defective in 4 African nations  DW
    3. Criminal failures in global pharma regulation  Pakistan Today
    4. One in Six Cancer Medications in Sub-Saharan Africa Found to Fail Quality Standards  geneonline.com
    5. Medicines that hinder rather than help healing  Business Recorder

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  • Balanced diet plays crucial role in dental health

    Balanced diet plays crucial role in dental health

    Over the decades, human lifestyles have undergone significant changes, and our diets have evolved to adapt to our busy lives. The way we eat has changed dramatically, and this shift has had a profound impact on our oral and dental health. While regular brushing and flossing are essential, a well-balanced diet plays a crucial role in supporting strong teeth and gums.

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    A poor diet can lead to a range of oral health issues, including tooth decay, gum disease and more. The connection between diet and dental health is particularly strong in children, with high rate of tooth decay seen in children in the age group of three and nine years. Consuming high amounts of sugar and acidic foods, such as cold drinks, bread and biscuits can lead to tooth decay and erosion. Additionally, nutrient deficiencies, particularly in calcium, vitamin D and phosphorus, can lead to weak teeth and gums.

    Soft and sticky foods, such as pizzas and burgers, are more likely to contribute to tooth decay than fibrous foods like salads, fruits and vegetables, which can help clean teeth naturally. On the other hand, certain foods can support dental health, including dairy products, which are rich in calcium and support strong teeth, leafy greens, which are packed with vitamins and minerals that promote healthy gums, crunchy fruits and vegetables, which can help clean teeth and stimulate saliva production, and nuts and seeds, which are good sources of phosphorus and other essential nutrients.

    The shift from raw, fibrous foods to more complex, soft, high sugar and processed foods has had significant consequences as far as dental health is concened, particularly in young children. The number of young children visiting dental clinics has increased in recent years, with many suffering from high rates of tooth decay, delayed shedding or eruption of teeth and other oral health issues.

    However, by making informed food choices, we can improve our dental health and overall well-being. Prioritising whole, nutrient-dense foods, planning and preparing healthy meals, limiting sugary and acidic foods and staying hydrated can all help promote strong teeth and gums.


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  • Malaria breakthrough for babies – WNYC

    1. Malaria breakthrough for babies  WNYC
    2. First malaria treatment for babies approved for use  BBC
    3. Swiss medicines authority issues first approval for antimalarial drug for treatment of infants  WETM
    4. Novartis’ Coartem Baby: Pioneering Pediatric Malaria Care and ESG-Driven Growth  AInvest
    5. Novartis Drug Becomes First Malaria Therapy for Newborns and Infants  MedCity News

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  • Breast Cancer Surgery at a Tertiary Center in Greece: Clinicopathological Associations and Patient Outcomes

    Breast Cancer Surgery at a Tertiary Center in Greece: Clinicopathological Associations and Patient Outcomes


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  • Xylazine Withdrawal: A Case Report From the Intensive Care Unit to the Medical Ward

    Xylazine Withdrawal: A Case Report From the Intensive Care Unit to the Medical Ward


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  • Ivory Tower: Despite vaccines, rabies still kills thousands in country

    Ivory Tower: Despite vaccines, rabies still kills thousands in country

    Despite decades of medical advancement and the availability of effective vaccines, rabies continues to be a major public health threat in India, claiming an estimated 20,000 lives annually.

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    According to the World Health Organization (WHO), India accounts for 36 per cent of global rabies deaths, making it the most affected country in the world. The disease, which is 100 per cent preventable, remains endemic due to gaps in surveillance, stray dog management and timely access to treatment.

    Globally, rabies causes around 59,000 deaths each year, with over 90 per cent occurring in Asia and Africa. In India, the burden is exacerbated by the high population of stray dogs, estimated at 6.82 million nationwide, with Punjab alone accounting for 0.29 million. A national survey revealed that India records approximately 9.1 million animal bite incidents annually, translating to 6.6 bites per 1,000 people. These bites, primarily from unvaccinated stray dogs, are the leading cause of human rabies infections in the country.

    Rabies is caused by a virus from the Rhabdoviridae family, transmitted through the saliva of infected animals—most commonly via bites or scratches. While wild animals like bats and foxes are reservoirs in other parts of the world, in India, domestic and stray dogs are the primary vectors. The virus has an incubation period ranging from one to three months, but can be shorter if the bite is near the brain. Early symptoms mimic the flu—fever, headache, and fatigue—but rapidly progress to neurological complications such as confusion, hallucinations, paralysis and hydrophobia. Once symptoms appear, the disease is almost always fatal.

    To address this crisis, the government has launched several initiatives. The National Rabies Control Programme (NRCP) focuses on mass dog vaccination, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and public education. Complementing this is the Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme, which aims to sterilise and vaccinate stray dogs to curb their population and reduce transmission.

    However, several challenges still persist. Many government hospitals offer free anti-rabies vaccines and Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG), but timely access remains a hurdle, especially in rural and underserved regions. Experts stress the importance of immediate wound washing, followed by PEP, which includes a series of vaccine doses and, in severe cases, RIG administration.

    Recent studies from Punjab and other states suggest that rabies incidence in animals, particularly stray dogs and cattle, may be underreported, highlighting the need for enhanced surveillance and data-driven interventions. Children under 15 are especially vulnerable, accounting for 30–60 per cent of rabies deaths, often due to unreported bites and delayed treatment.

    Dr JPS Gill, Vice-Chancellor of Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, advocates for a One Health approach, integrating human, animal and environmental health sectors to tackle rabies holistically. This includes strengthening healthcare infrastructure, scaling up dog vaccination and raising community awareness.

    “Rabies is not just a veterinary issue, it is a human tragedy that continues to claim thousands of lives every year, despite the availability of effective vaccines and treatments. The solution lies in a One Health approach that integrates human, animal and environmental health sectors. Strengthening disease surveillance, improving healthcare access, scaling up dog vaccination and increasing community awareness are all critical to preventing avoidable deaths. With sustained efforts and community participation, India has the potential not only to control but to eliminate rabies in the near future,” added Dr Jasbir Singh Bedi, Director, Centre for One Health, GADVASU.

    India has committed to the global goal of eliminating dog-mediated human rabies deaths by 2030, but experts warn that without sustained efforts and intersectoral collaboration, the target may remain elusive. As Dr Gill put it, “Every life lost to rabies is one too many—and with the right action, these lives can be saved.”


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