Elizabeth Adamson’s Post

WISH 2024 Summit Closes with Qatar Becoming First MENA Country to Join Novartis Foundations Cardio4cities Initiative https://lnkd.in/duBTr5Ji HE Director of Public Health Department, Ministry of Public Health, Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad Al-Thani explained "cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in Qatar. Noncommunicable diseases cost Qatar QR 18.1 billion annually, and CVDs account for 73 percent of that burden. "In many cases, CVDs are preventable, and that’s why we are committed to shifting our focus and approach to prevention, rather than only improving care this is especially important for chronic diseases, as most drivers of these diseases can be addressed outside of the health facilities, in our daily life. "This is exactly why we are eagerly looking forward to implementing CARDIO4Cities in Qatar, and working together with different sectors and stakeholders to improve cardiovascular health in the country." Speaking about the significance of Qatar joining this initiative, Research, Development, and Innovation Adviser to the Chairpersons Office and Executive Director of Research, Development and Innovation at Qatar Foundation (QF), Dr. Hilal Lashuel, said: "Participating in CARDIO4Cities offers Qatar unique opportunities to improve public health and drive innovation. Collaborating with a global network of cities allows us to share knowledge, learn from each other, and be inspired by new solutions developed in different urban settings. "This partnership will help us develop tools to capture, integrate, and analyze data, as well as scalable strategies to improve cardiovascular health at both the population and individual levels." He added that one of the programs key strengths is its tailored, data-driven approach, which adapts interventions to local needs. While fostering global collaboration, CARDIO4Cities ensures local ownership and prioritizes data privacy and security. Held under the theme 'Humanizing Health: Conflict, Equity, and Resilience', the two-day WISH 2024 summit brought together over 3000 delegates, including more than 200 global health leaders and expert speakers to discuss evidence-based ideas and practices in healthcare innovation to address the world’s most urgent global health challenges including the impact of conflict on healthcare, cancer, antimicrobial resistance, mental health and palliative care. (QNA)

As we wrap up #𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵, it's vital to reflect on why tackling cardiovascular disease is paramount. As the leading cause of death in LACan and across the globe, its impact extends far beyond individual health—it affects economies, society, and healthcare systems in profound ways. In 2021 it was estimated that there are 𝟰𝟴 𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗮 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗶𝗿𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮[1] and globally CVD was responsible for one in three deaths, equating to an estimated 20.5 million fatalities[2]. Additionally, according to a report published by FIFARMA and WifOR Institute the most significant socioeconomic burden comes from neoplasms and cardiovascular diseases, which represent approximately 18.5% and 17.6% of GDP respectively. Argentina, Brazil, and Chile being the most affected countries[3] in the LATAM region. Reducing the burden of heart disease can lead to healthier populations, stronger economies, and more resilient healthcare systems. In this context, it’s relevant to share some key insights from Deloitte's recently published report: “𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗯𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲: 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗔𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮”: • 𝗗𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Increased telehealth adoption is enhancing cardiovascular care accessibility and efficiency, driving better patient outcomes. • 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰-𝗣𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀: Strategic collaborations are essential for infrastructure improvements and innovative heart health solutions, boosting regional healthcare capabilities. • 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗘𝗾𝘂𝗶𝘁𝘆: Addressing disparities in healthcare ensures every community can access life-saving cardiovascular care. • 𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺𝘀: Embracing value-based care promotes preventative and long-term management strategies, optimizing resources and improving patient outcomes. As we reflect on these insights, let's commit to leveraging them for better heart health across our Region, and deliver on our ambition to build a sustainable healthcare legacy for the future. Access the full report from Deloitte here: https://lnkd.in/ettYBM_x References: [1] Global Burden of Disease (2024) estimates for 2021 https://lnkd.in/ejp2jKsg [2] Global Burden of Disease (2024) estimates for 2021 https://lnkd.in/ejp2jKsg [3] SoC-burden-in-Latinoamerica-General-White-paper-1.pdf (fifarma.org)

NICE's Review of the Severity Modifier – Key Insights for Market Access and HTA Recently, England’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) completed its review of the controversial severity modifier. NICE has concluded that no changes are needed to the severity modifier, introduced in 2022 to replace the End-of-Life (EOL) modifier. The severity modifier was designed to give broader, more equitable access to treatments for severe diseases by allowing for higher cost-effectiveness thresholds based on disease severity. The modifier operates in two tiers: a 1.2 multiplier for moderately severe diseases and a 1.7 multiplier for very severe conditions, raising the thresholds to £36,000 and £51,000 per QALY (quality-adjusted life year), respectively. The review, which included a comprehensive analysis of over 60 appraisals, found that the severity modifier has led to a higher proportion of positive recommendations compared to the previous EOL system—84.4% versus 82.7%. This means that more treatments are receiving positive appraisals, especially for diseases that may not have qualified under the old EOL criteria. For instance, the modifier has been applied to non-EOL conditions such as cystic fibrosis, chronic hepatitis D, and various forms of cancer, allowing for broader access. One of the key findings of the review is that the transition from the EOL modifier to the severity modifier has been "opportunity-cost neutral." This is an important point for market access, as it means that expanding access for severe conditions has not displaced care or compromised patient outcomes elsewhere in the NHS. NICE remains confident that the modifier is achieving its intended goals without inflating costs. Despite this positive outlook, some of the key industry stakeholders, including the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI), have expressed concerns about the conservative application of the modifier. According to ABPI’s analysis, the average QALY weighting per topic since the introduction of the severity modifier is slightly lower than anticipated—1.073 compared to the projected 1.119 which was used by NICE to design the severity modifier. Nevertheless, NICE’s findings suggest that this hasn’t negatively impacted the overall rate of positive recommendations. Looking ahead, NICE has committed to further research on societal preferences regarding the weighting of health benefits for severe diseases. This research, set to begin in December 2024 and complete over the next two years, will inform future modifications and ensure the system continues to reflect public values. As market access experts, we understand how vital it is to stay informed about such HTA updates. At P4A, we are dedicated to helping our clients navigate the ever-evolving HTA landscape to optimise their strategies and ensure that patients receive the care they need. #MarketAccess #NICE #HTA #SeverityModifier Written by Angeliki Meletsi, Senior Analyst

Revolutionizing Primary Healthcare: Integrated TB Screening Across RHCs and BHUs Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in underserved areas. To combat this, the Provincial TB Control Program is pioneering a transformative initiative—INTEGRATED TB SCREENING AT RURAL HEALTH CENTERS (RHCs) & BASIC HEALTH UNITS (BHUs). This innovative approach not only strengthens primary healthcare services but also bridges the gap in early TB detection. By leveraging innovative diagnostics, enhanced infrastructure, and community engagement, this program aims to revolutionize healthcare delivery and achieve ambitious case detection targets. Discover how this initiative is reshaping the fight against TB and bringing quality care closer to communities.

MRINZ: HRC Grant fuels REMAP-CAP study The REMAP-CAP study (Randomised, Embedded, Multifactorial, Adaptive Platform for Community-Acquired Pneumonia), active in 12 intensive care units in Aotearoa New Zealand was awarded a 5 million dollar Health Research Council of New Zealand Programme Grant on 27 June. Dr Colin McArthur and Dr Tom Hills, who jointly lead the Medical Research Institute of New Zealand (MRINZ) Infectious Diseases programme, oversee the study, supported by a large research team across the motu. Severe pneumonia, often caused by influenza, remains a common and serious health issue, particularly affecting Māori. Since its inception in 2016, REMAP-CAP has been funded by the Health Research Council (HRC) and has focused on identifying the most effective treatments for severe pneumonia and influenza. Its adaptive design is also capable of swiftly responding to emerging pandemics. In 2020, with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, REMAP-CAP quickly pivoted to address this new threat. Enrolling more than 10,000 participants with COVID-19 globally, the study provided crucial evidence on effective treatments such as corticosteroids, immune modulators, and optimal blood-thinning doses. #REMAPCAP #MRINZ #HRCGrant #PneumoniaResearch #HealthResearchNZ #MedicalResearch #CommunityHealth #PandemicResponse #InfluenzaResearch #COVID19Research #AdaptiveTrials #HealthcareInnovation #Aotearoa #MāoriHealth #ICUResearch #globalhealthstudy #iranzresearch https://lnkd.in/g7fEiwt6

Real stories, real impact. Today, we celebrate the journey of the Program in Global Primary Care and Social Change (PGPCSC), part of the Harvard Medical School Center for Primary Care, a valued member of our Alliance. Their dedication to improving liver health through a Primary Health Care (PHC) approach is inspiring and we’re grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with them in reducing the growing burden of liver diseases in the APAC region. 🔘 The mission of PGPCSC is to play a catalytic role in the global effort to achieve UHC by 2030 by building on the global movement and commitment to PHC, expanding Harvard’s network of relationships and partnerships, like that with the APAC Liver Disease Alliance, to accelerate knowledge creation and innovation in education and healthcare delivery.   🔘 Chronic liver disease is a significant burden in many of PGPCSC partner countries in the Asia Pacific, despite the causative agent - viral hepatitis - being preventable, treatable, and curable. 🔘 PGPCSC's research in Vietnam and the Philippines has demonstrated that services are fragmented and/or concentrated in tertiary health facilities in urban centres, in the hands of specialists. Additionally, awareness is low and stigma is common within the community. These are barriers to prevention, early detection and treatment which can be effectively addressed through a PHC approach.   🔘 PGPCSC's STITCH project in Vietnam and the Philippines is putting this approach into practice, by strengthening primary care services to screen, treat and care for people living with hepatitis and empowering them to take charge of their health, enabled through multi-sectoral partnerships with the government, community-based organisations, and the private sector and subnational policy change. Just two months in operation, >2,000 people were screened, and >150 new cases were identified and people linked to care close to where they live in Thai Binh, Vietnam, and Tarlac, Philippines.   🔘 Using implementation science and quality improvement strategies, the project will test, improve and scale up the model of care in 2025 and 2026. Evidence generated will be used to inform national policy changes required to sustain the accessibility and affordability of services for people living with hepatitis at the primary care level. 🤝 Our partnership is a shared mission to make a positive difference. Together, we are breaking barriers, raising awareness, and creating policy change in the fight against hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma. #SuccessStory #EliminateHepatitis #Inspiration #Harvard #APACLiverDiseaseAlliance Susanna TAN Priyank Dubey Anurag Bhargava Varun Veigas Karan Kampani Joanna Si Chen Anna Reilly John Ward Lindsey Hiebert Benedetta Nirta Francesca Da Ros Bethany Holt Giacomo Donnini Chris Munoz Will Brown Global Liver Institute Coalition for Global Hepatitis Elimination The Hepatitis Fund International Liver Cancer Movement 

"A Shocking Indictment of European Research and Healthcare Policies for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis [Stockholm, 7 April 2024] The European ME Alliance (EMEA) today releases the findings of a comprehensive survey shedding light on the distressing state of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME, sometimes referred to as #MECFS in some countries *) patients across Europe. The survey, conducted among more than 11,000 people with ME/CFS in Europe, presents a stark indictment of European and national policies for neglecting the ongoing and protracted suffering of millions of patients and their families impacted by this inadequately studied disease. Therefore, we call on governments, healthcare providers, research agencies, healthcare policymakers, healthcare ministers, politicians, and European organisations to work with EMEA and take action to address the unmet needs of people with ME/CFS. The results from the survey underscore a concerning lack of recognition and support for individuals grappling with this debilitating disease and paints a stark picture of the overwhelming challenges faced by people with ME/CFS in Europe. The survey reveals that healthcare systems are failing them, with three out of four patients (74%) feeling that they received little or no health care support, while only 1 out of 8 (12%) had good or very good support." Continue reading here 👇👇👇 https://lnkd.in/eDzVrjHY

Unveiling the Complexities of COPD and Asthma: Advancing Health Equity through Research Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and asthma are two prevalent respiratory conditions affecting millions worldwide. While they share similarities, distinct differences exist between these conditions. In this post, we highlight the similarities and differences between COPD and asthma, highlighting the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and excellence in clinical research. Similarities: 1. Respiratory Symptoms: Both COPD and asthma present with respiratory symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing. 2. Inflammatory Response: Both conditions involve inflammation in the airways, leading to narrowed air passages and breathing difficulties. 3. Triggers: Environmental factors like air pollution, smoking, and allergens can exacerbate both conditions. Differences: 1. Pathophysiology: COPD is characterized by irreversible airflow limitation, whereas asthma is marked by reversible airflow obstruction. 2. Age of Onset: COPD typically affects individuals over 40, while asthma can occur at any age. 3. Symptom Patterns: COPD symptoms worsen over time, whereas asthma symptoms can vary in severity and frequency. Disparities in Pulmonary Disease Outcomes Research reveals alarming disparities in pulmonary disease outcomes among minority populations. According to the American Lung Association: - African Americans are more likely to develop COPD and experience worse outcomes compared to their white counterparts. - Hispanic/Latino individuals are more likely to die from asthma-related complications. CPCC-Research's Vision At CPCC-Research, we're dedicated to addressing these disparities through: 1. Diversity: Incorporating diverse patient populations in clinical trials. 2. Equity: Ensuring equal access to healthcare and research opportunities. 3. Inclusion: Fostering inclusive research environments. 4. Excellence: Conducting rigorous, evidence-based research. CPCC-RESEARCH Initiatives CPCC-Research is actively engaged in studies focused on: 1. Personalized Medicine: Developing tailored treatment approaches for COPD and asthma patients. 2. Health Disparities: Investigating factors contributing to disparities in pulmonary disease outcomes. 3. Lung Health: Exploring innovative therapies for lung disease prevention and treatment. What is needed? 1. Raising awareness about COPD and asthma. 2. Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in clinical research. 3. Supporting research initiatives addressing health disparities. American Lung Association National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute CPCC-RESEARCH Join the Conversation: Visit www.cpccresearch.com to learn more about our current and future trials #PulmonaryDiseaseAwarenessMonth #COPD #Asthma #HealthDisparities #ClinicalResearch #DiversityEquityInclusion #ExcellenceInResearch #MinorityHealth #RespiratoryHealth #LungHealth #CPCCResearch

Diabetes and heart disease are significant public health concerns in Ethiopia. The prevalence of both conditions has been increasing in recent years, driven by factors such as urbanization, lifestyle changes, and improved healthcare access. Key Statistics: * Diabetes: The prevalence of diabetes in Ethiopia has been rising steadily. While exact figures vary, it is estimated that a significant portion of the population is affected. * Heart Disease: Cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes, are also major causes of mortality in Ethiopia. Many of these conditions are linked to diabetes and other risk factors. * Risk Factors: Common risk factors for diabetes and heart disease in Ethiopia include obesity, sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diets, and smoking. Challenges: * Limited Healthcare Access: Despite improvements in healthcare access, many Ethiopians still face challenges in accessing quality care, particularly in rural areas. * Lack of Awareness: There is often a lack of awareness about the risks and consequences of diabetes and heart disease, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. * Stigma: Stigma associated with these conditions can prevent people from seeking help. Efforts to Address the Issue: * Public Health Initiatives: The Ethiopian government and international organizations are working to raise awareness about diabetes and heart disease and promote healthy lifestyles. * Improved Healthcare Access: Efforts are being made to expand access to healthcare services, including primary care and specialized care for diabetes and heart disease. * Research and Development: Research is ongoing to develop more effective treatments and preventive measures for diabetes and heart disease in Ethiopian populations. Ethiopia has been implementing various initiatives to address the growing burden of diabetes and heart disease. Some notable examples include: * National Diabetes Program: The Ethiopian government has established a National Diabetes Program to improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diabetes. This program includes public health campaigns, training of healthcare professionals, and establishment of diabetes clinics. * Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Control Program: This program aims to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases through promotion of healthy lifestyles, early detection, and treatment. It involves community-based interventions, school health programs, and training of healthcare providers. * Partnership with International Organizations: Ethiopia has partnered with international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) to strengthen its capacity to address diabetes and heart disease. * Research and Development: Ethiopian researchers are conducting studies to better understand the epidemiology, risk factors, and prevention strategies for diabetes and heart disease in the country.

🔥🔥 European report on the Healthcare failure of ME and systemic Human Rights abuse 🙏 removal of any bio-psycho-social (BPS) approaches and biomed funding only 🚀 calling for immediate Centre of Excellence centres and ME specialist teams in every country 🚩 European governments must step up now “Ignorance, apathy and a lack of research toward myalgic encephalomyelitis in Europe must not be allowed to continue. Failure to act decisively now will perpetuate unnecessary suffering and neglect of people with ME/CFS – a clear abuse violation of human rights for these citizens, who should not be left behind as the world works towards achieving Universal Health Coverage to achieve the 2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.” #WorldHealthDay #WorldHealthDay24 United Nations World Health Organization McKinsey Health Institute #Myalgicencephalomyelitis #LongCOVID General Medical Council Royal College of Physicians Royal College of General Practitioners Society of Occupational Medicine NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme NHS in UK NHS Trust UK House of Lords UK government Our Future Health UK Health Data Research UK (HDR UK) UK HealthCare UK Health Security Agency Healthwatch England Good Law Project Amnesty International UK Equality and Human Rights Commission Human Rights Watch