Health
Malaria Vaccine Roll-Out Looks To I Save Thousands Of Lives
In a groundbreaking development, a new malaria vaccine has the potential to save hundreds of thousands of lives over the coming decade. This remarkable advancement, spearheaded by Sir Adrian Hill, professor of vaccinology at the University of Oxford, represents a significant leap forward in the fight against one of the world’s deadliest diseases.
The R21/Matrix-M vaccine, developed at the university’s Jenner Institute under Sir Adrian’s leadership, is the first to achieve the World Health Organization’s (WHO) target of 75% efficacy in preventing malaria. The initial doses of this life-saving vaccine were administered in the Ivory Coast on Monday, marking the beginning of a new era
in malaria prevention.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Sir Adrian expressed his optimism about the vaccine’s impact. “I think during this decade, we can reduce malaria deaths from half a million a year to maybe 200,000 if things go well,” he stated. “Then, ultimately, probably next decade will see a really serious attempt at eliminating and eradicating malaria.”
The journey of R21/ Matrix-M began in 2012, and its development has been steadily progressing since then. One of the key advantages of this vaccine is its affordability. Priced at just under four dollars per dose, it is significantly cheaper than the original malaria vaccine, which costs between nine and ten dollars per dose. This cost-effectiveness is crucial for low-income countries, where malaria is most prevalent and financial resources are limited.
“This is why the development of R21/Matrix-M is so important,” Sir Adrian explained. “Everyone sees this as an affordable vaccine, making it realistic to roll out tens of millions of doses from now on.”
The vaccine is administered to children at five, six, and seven months of age, with doses given four weeks apart, followed by a booster a year later. It works by priming the blood with antibodies that target the malaria protein known as circumsporozoite protein (CSP).
This development has been met with widespread acclaim, as it brings hope to millions of people living in malaria-endemic regions. The prospect of significantly reducing malaria-related deaths and ultimately eradicating the disease is now within reach, thanks to the tireless efforts of Sir Adrian Hill and his team at the University of Oxford.
As the world watches the rollout of R21/Matrix-M in the Ivory Coast, there is renewed optimism that this vaccine will transform the fight against malaria and save countless lives in the years to come.
CARICOM and the UNEP World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC) have partnered to strengthen biodiversity monitoring and conservation efforts across the Caribbean. This collaboration aims to enhance data collection, support sustainable ecosystem management, and protect the region’s rich biodiversity. By advancing the understanding of ecosystems and species trends, CARICOM and UNEP-WCMC are empowering Caribbean nations to make more informed environmental decisions. The initiative includes training local experts, integrating cutting-edge technologies, and fostering partnerships to promote resilience against climate change and biodiversity loss. This joint effort supports global conservation goals while preserving the Caribbean’s natural heritage for future generations. Join us in celebrating this significant step toward a healthier, more biodiverse Caribbean!
Welcome to the highly anticipated 23rd volume of Diaspora Watch, your indispensable source connecting the vibrant African diaspora around the world! This edition is packed with captivating stories and in-depth analysis.
FREE Digital View: https://www.flipsnack.com/excelglobalmedia/diaspora-watch-vol-23-nov-4-10-2024/full-view.html
Print on Demand: https://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/2935447?__r=1069759
SUBSCRIBE TO DIASPORA WATCH NOW ON THE BELOW LINK !!!
https://diasporawatch.com/subscribe-to-diaspora-watch-newspaper/
Breast cancer is often perceived as a disease that affects only women, but experts are warning that men are also at risk. While the majority of breast cancer cases are diagnosed in women, a growing body of research highlights that men, too, can develop this disease, albeit at lower rates. Male breast cancer may go undetected for longer periods due to a lack of awareness, leading to more advanced stages by the time of diagnosis.
Experts emphasize that early detection is crucial for both men and women. Symptoms like lumps, skin dimpling, nipple discharge, or changes in breast shape should never be ignored, regardless of gender. Genetic factors such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations can increase the risk of breast cancer in men, just as they do in women.
In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, health professionals are advocating for increased awareness and education on male breast cancer. Men are encouraged to perform self-examinations and seek medical advice if they notice any unusual changes. Early detection and timely treatment can significantly improve outcomes.
By breaking down gender stereotypes and raising awareness, the medical community hopes to prevent unnecessary delays in diagnosis for men, saving lives and reducing the stigma associated with this disease.
Dive into the world of Diaspora Watch and stay informed, engaged, and inspired.
FREE Digital View:
https://diasporawatch.com/diaspora-watch-20th-edition…/
Print on Demand: https://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/2918067?__r=1069759
SUBSCRIBE TO DIASPORA WATCH NOW ON THE BELOW LINK !!!
https://diasporawatch.com/subscribe-to-diaspora-watch…/
In a significant move towards universal healthcare, Canada’s parliament has passed a bill to fully fund contraception and diabetes medications. This new legislation is particularly impactful for the one in five Canadians who struggle with the high costs of prescription drugs. In 2023 alone, Canadians spent C$41 billion on prescriptions, with over C$8 billion paid out-of-pocket.
The bill aims to cover 100% of the costs for individuals without existing insurance and is expected to increase federal spending by C$1.9 billion over the next five years. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau praised the bill as “real progress” and urged provincial leaders to support the legislation’s swift implementation. British Columbia has already signed a memorandum of understanding, but other provinces like Alberta and Quebec have raised concerns about federal overreach into provincial healthcare jurisdictions.
Despite these concerns, reproductive health advocates celebrate the bill, as it will provide access to contraception for around nine million women of reproductive age, as well as crucial diabetes medications for the 3.7 million Canadians living with the condition. While critics argue that a single-payer model could limit drug access and increase taxpayer burdens, the legislation represents a major step forward in Canada’s journey toward comprehensive drug coverage.
FREE Digital View:
Diaspora Watch 20th Edition (October 14-20, 2024): Your Trusted Source for Global News and Insights
Print on Demand: https://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/2918067?__r=1069759
SUBSCRIBE TO DIASPORA WATCH NOW ON THE BELOW LINK !!!
https://diasporawatch.com/subscribe-to-diaspora-watch-newspaper/
Nigeria’s Luxury Jet Repossessed by Chinese Firm In Canada Over Unpaid Debt
Hurray! It’s the 25th Edition of Diaspora Watch!
Cybersecurity and Data Protection in Africa
Diaspora Watch Vol. 24: A New Era, A Historic Victory, and the Pulse of the Global African Experience
Diaspora Watch 20th Edition (October 14-20, 2024): Your Trusted Source for Global News and Insights
Revolutionary mRNA Lung Cancer Vaccine Trial Offers New Hope To Thousands
