Santo Domingo.- Around 15% of the global population, or at least one billion people, live with some form of disability. This statistic includes nearly 240 million children, with a significant portion in Latin America and the Caribbean, where approximately 19.1 million children and adolescents have disabilities. However, 70% of school-age children and adolescents with disabilities in this region do not attend school. The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, endorsed by the Dominican Republic, aims to ensure equal rights and freedoms for children with disabilities.

In the Dominican Republic, UNICEF highlights that one in ten children between 2 and 17 years old has a disability. The situation is more acute among the 5-17 age group, with 11.3% having a disability. Carlos Carrera, UNICEF’s country representative, points out that these children and their families face numerous barriers, including negative societal attitudes, lack of supportive policies, and limited educational and economic opportunities.

To address these challenges, significant initiatives have been undertaken in the Dominican Republic. In December 2022, 500 families with disabled children received a social protection bonus, spearheaded by First Lady Raquel Arbaje. This effort aims to ensure equal rights for these children and adolescents. Despite such measures, families like Antonia Peguero’s, who has a son with Down syndrome, still face hardships due to economic realities and high living costs.

Efforts to promote inclusive education are underway, with the Ministry of Education and UNICEF implementing pilot projects to transform education services for inclusive learning. This initiative involves the development of a National Inclusive Education Model to enhance inclusive education services in regular and special schools. UNICEF calls for societal change to overcome prejudices and eliminate barriers, ensuring inclusion for all children and adolescents with disabilities.

The acquisition accelerates AbbVie's commercial and clinical presence in the solid tumor space. Additionally, ImmunoGen's follow-on pipeline of promising next-generation ADCs further complements AbbVie's ADC platform and existing programs.

Under the terms of the transaction, AbbVie will acquire all outstanding shares of ImmunoGen for $31.26 per share in cash. The transaction values ImmunoGen at a total equity value of approximately $10.1 billion. The boards of directors of both companies have approved the transaction. This transaction is expected to close in the middle of 2024, subject to ImmunoGen shareholder approval, regulatory approvals, and other customary closing conditions.

"The acquisition of ImmunoGen demonstrates our commitment to deliver on our long-term growth strategy and enables AbbVie to further diversify our oncology pipeline across solid tumors and hematologic malignancies," said Richard A. Gonzalez, chairman and chief executive officer, AbbVie. "Together, AbbVie and ImmunoGen have the potential to transform the standard of care for people living with cancer."

ImmunoGen's oncology portfolio has the potential to help drive long-term revenue growth for AbbVie's oncology franchise. Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death from gynecological cancers in the U.S. ELAHERE is the first targeted medicine to show meaningful survival benefit in PROC. As a fast-growing solid tumor therapy, ELAHERE provides AbbVie with a potential multi-billion-dollar on-market medicine with expansion opportunities in earlier lines of therapy and larger segments of the ovarian cancer market.

"With global commercial infrastructure and deep clinical and regulatory expertise, AbbVie is the right company to accelerate geographic and label expansion, and realize the full potential of ELAHERE as the first and only ADC approved in ovarian cancer," said Mark Enyedy, president and chief executive officer, ImmunoGen. "The addition of ImmunoGen's pipeline, platform, and expertise to AbbVie's oncology portfolio is an exciting opportunity for the combined companies to advance innovation in ADCs. This transaction is the culmination of our 40-year commitment to develop and deliver the next-generation of ADCs and more good days for people living with cancer."

ELAHERE is a first-in-class ADC targeting folate receptor alpha (FRα) with a maytansinoid payload DM4, a potent tubulin inhibitor designed to kill the targeted cancer cells. ELAHERE received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) accelerated approval in 2022 for the treatment of adult patients with FRα positive, platinum-resistant epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer, who have received one to three prior systemic treatment regimens. The positive Phase 3 results from the MIRASOL confirmatory trial will support a Marketing Authorization Application (MAA) to the European Union and a supplemental Biologic License Application (sBLA) submission to the U.S. FDA in order to gain full approval. Ongoing clinical development programs are underway to expand into earlier lines of therapy and enter other large patient segments of the ovarian market over the next 5-10 years.

ImmunoGen's follow-on pipeline of promising next-generation ADCs expands AbbVie's growing oncology pipeline of potentially transformative programs across multiple different solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. ImmunoGen's Phase 1 asset, IMGN-151, is a next-generation anti-FRα ADC for ovarian cancer with the potential for expansion into other solid tumor indications. Pivekimab sunirine, currently in Phase 2, is an anti-CD123 ADC targeting blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN), a rare blood cancer, which was granted FDA breakthrough therapy designation for the treatment of relapsed/refractory BPDCN.

AbbVie will acquire all outstanding ImmunoGen common stock for $31.26 per share in cash. The proposed transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of regulatory approvals and approval by ImmunoGen stockholders. The proposed transaction is expected to be accretive to diluted earnings per share (EPS) beginning in 2027.

Read also: Abbvie executive Patrick Horber appointed as Novartis's President, International

Photo copyright PAHO

The President, Vice President, Board of Directors, member organizations and staff of the Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC) are shocked and deeply saddened by the news of the passing of PAHO Director Emeritus and our very own Caribbean public health champion Dr. Carissa Etienne.

Dr Etienne, a Dominican national and a graduate of the University of the West Indies, had a distinguished career in the field of health, both at the national and international levels. She was a champion of universal health coverage, a leader in the fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and COVID-19 in the Region, and oversaw the elimination of several communicable diseases, such as measles, rubella, and congenital rubella syndrome, in the Americas. Dr Etienne was an honorary Vice-President of the American Public Health Association and had many other affiliations and awards.

The HCC family expresses our deepest condolences to Dr Etienne’s family, friends, colleagues, and the entire health community in the Caribbean and beyond. Dr. Etienne was a visionary and a mentor who inspired many with her passion, dedication, and wisdom. She was a friend and a partner of the HCC, and we are grateful for her support and collaboration over the years. She will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by all of us who had the privilege of working with her or learning from her.

The HCC is a civil society alliance established to combat NCDs and their associated risk factors and conditions in the Caribbean. We share Dr. Etienne’s vision of a healthier and more equitable Region, and we will continue to work towards achieving it in her honor and memory. We join PAHO, the WHO and the Caribbean in celebrating her life and legacy, and hope that her example will inspire the next generation of health leaders in the Caribbean and beyond. May she rest in peace.

The post HCC Statement on the Passing of Dr. Carissa F. Etienne PAHO/WHO Director Emeritus appeared first on Healthy Caribbean Coalition.

The trial was conducted from March 3, 2021, to December 7, 2021, aimed to discern whether prone positioning would decrease the time to successful ECMO weaning. The study involved 170 patients with severe ARDS across 14 intensive care units in France, with a median age of 51 years, of which 35% were women. Notably, 94% of patients had ARDS related to COVID-19. Patients were randomized into a group undergoing prone positioning (at least 4 sessions of 16 hours), and the other in a supine position.

Within 60 days of enrollment, the results of the study indicated that there was no significant difference in the time to successful ECMO weaning between the two groups. In the prone ECMO group, 44% of patients experienced successful ECMO weaning when compared to 44% in the supine ECMO group. Moreover, within 90 days, no significant disparities were observed in ECMO duration, length of stay in ICU, or 90-day mortality rates.

Although prone positioning showed promise in improving outcomes for patients with severe ARDS, the findings suggest that its application did not significantly reduce the time to successful ECMO weaning in this particular patient population. 

The findings underscore the complexity of managing severe respiratory conditions and the importance of evidence-based approaches in critical care. As discussions on respiratory care continue to evolve, research endeavors like this shed light on the nuances of treatment strategies, helping refine protocols for better patient outcomes in intensive care settings.

Source:

Schmidt, M., Hajage, D., Lebreton, G., Dres, M., Guervilly, C., Richard, J. C., Sonneville, R., Winiszewski, H., Muller, G., Beduneau, G., Mercier, E., Roze, H., Lesouhaitier, M., Terzi, N., Thille, A. W., Laurent, I., Kimmoun, A., Combes, A., … Luyt, C. E. (2023). Prone Positioning During Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Patients With Severe ARDS. In JAMA. American Medical Association (AMA). https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2023.24491

This among other attitudes and values has resulted in men having poor self-care, poorer health practices and ultimately presenting later or not at all for health issues which ultimately leads to poorer outcomes. Believe it or not, men are more likely to experience chronic medical conditions due to different lifestyle and social factors including smoking, alcohol, substance abuse, lack of exercise, stress, conflict resolution and an unhealthy diet.

Further, amidst the tropical beauty of this Caribbean haven, the pursuit of well-being takes centre stage. Join me on this journey as we delve briefly into the distinctive health landscape tailored for Jamaican men.

Prostate health

Now, let's turn our focus to the prostate, a seemingly small gland that holds considerable influence over men's health. Recently at a talk including both sexes in the audience on men's health two questions were posed: When is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and when is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month? Everyone knew that breast cancer month was October but considerably less were even aware that there was a Prostate Cancer Awareness Month (which is September). Prostate cancer is the commonest cancer and cause of cancer-related deaths in Jamaica even more so than breast cancer. So I certainly applaud and endorse all the necessary attention and light that has been shed on breast health and cancer awareness and endorse that even more should be done; but prostate health is still woefully lacking and requires our attention to improve health outcomes. This prevalent concern prompts us to adopt a proactive stance through regular check-ups (an inexhaustible reminder that this is recommended starting at 40 years old). These examinations extend beyond mere screenings; they evolve into collaborative consultations. Conversations delve into individual risk factors, family medical history, and lifestyle intricacies. The goal is not just to detect potential problems but to cultivate a partnership, wherein patients actively contribute to their well-being journey. Embracing a healthy lifestyle becomes pivotal in nurturing optimal prostate health. Imagine it as creating a fertile ground for this vital gland to thrive — a balanced diet, replete with fruits and vegetables, coupled with a routine of regular exercise. This regimen isn't just about maintaining physical health; it's about offering the prostate a supportive environment for long-term well-being.

Sexual health

Transitioning to the realm of sexual health, we navigate through cultural nuances that sometimes obscure these essential discussions. Despite the intricacies, creating a safe space for open dialogue is imperative. Beyond the realm of treatments, our conversations span preventive measures and lifestyle choices that positively impact sexual health. Consider it as fostering an environment akin to a heart-to-heart chat, where destigmatising discussions empowers men to comfortably share concerns. The focus broadens beyond specific conditions like erectile function to encompass the entire spectrum of sexual well-being. By addressing these aspects, we pave the way for empowered conversations that contribute significantly to a man's overall health.

Cardiovascular health

Now, let's shift our focus to the heart of the matter — cardiovascular health. Beyond the realm of prescriptions, we embark on a journey towards a heart-healthy lifestyle. These discussions aren't mere directives but a collaborative exploration of choices that transcend medication. Emphasis is placed on the significance of a balanced diet, steering away from saturated fats and sodium, while embracing heart-healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Regular exercise is not just a recommendation; it's an integral part of the prescription for well-being. It's about empowering individuals to take charge of their cardiovascular health for the long haul. Picture it as a daily commitment to shower your heart with care and affection, fostering a relationship with your cardiovascular health that extends beyond medical interventions.

Mental health

It's wrong to assume that men don't struggle simply because they are expected to be strong and silent. Media and television more often portray crying men as something to be scoffed at. Mocking this healthy, human emotional release only serves to discourage men in talking to others about their difficulties and seeking the necessary help. Recent suicide rates in Jamaica show that men are four times (and as high as nine times more in 2006) more likely to do so than women. This is no doubt related to less males seeking medical care and more so for psychiatric disorders because of cultural undertones and the expectation that a man should not show weakness. There is an amusing social media clip currently that says 'man fi be a man and not no weak jelly back'. As much as I believe in the man being the protector and provider of the family, he shouldn't have to feel that it is a sign of weakness to open up, display emotions and seek help for depression instead of keeping it in and engaging in unhealthy vices in some cases such as substance abuse.

Venturing into the often underestimated realm of mental health, we recognise the intricate connection between mental and urological well-being. Stress, anxiety, and psychological factors aren't isolated concerns; they are threads intricately woven into the fabric of holistic health. In our discussions, we traverse beyond medications and treatments, diving deep into stress management techniques, coping strategies, and the pivotal role of seeking support when needed. Mental health is not a standalone entity but an integral part of a man's overall well-being. Picture it as acknowledging the see-saw effect — when one side is off-balance, the other is inevitably affected. This holistic approach embraces the interconnected nature of mental and urological health, creating a symbiotic relationship that significantly contributes to overall well-being.

Cultural sensitivity

In Jamaica's vibrant cultural tapestry, health care is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it's a dance that resonates with the community. As a urologist, understanding and respecting this cultural richness is fundamental. Recommendations aren't imposed but tailored to align seamlessly with the local ethos. Trust and connection become the cornerstones, ensuring that health advice transcends mere medical guidance to become a relatable and effective part of the community's well-being journey. This dance between health care and culture is more than just acknowledging differences; it's about celebrating diversity and fostering an environment where health recommendations feel not only relevant but deeply connected to the fabric of Jamaican life.

Collaborative efforts

Concluding our exploration, let's shine a spotlight on the collaborative efforts essential in the realm of men's health. It's not a solitary pursuit but a communal endeavour that involves doctors, community leaders, and every individual. This collaboration is akin to orchestrating a health festival, where collective efforts spread the message of well-being far and wide. It's about uniting to organise health events, disseminate crucial information, and create a ripple effect of awareness and care. In this collaborative tapestry, everyone plays a unique part, ensuring that health is not just a personal endeavour but a shared celebration of good health and well-being for all.

Conclusion

In this deep dive into men's health in Jamaica, the narrative extends beyond the clinical to embrace a holistic approach that resonates with the unique spirit of the island. It's not merely about treatments; it's about fostering a culture of understanding, openness, and proactive care. Here's to a healthier and happier future for the men of this beautiful island!

Dr Jeremy Thomas is a consultant urologist. He works privately in Montego Bay, Savanna-la-Mar and Kingston, and publicly at Cornwall Regional Hospital. He may be contacted on Facebook and Instagram: @jthomasurology or by e-mail: jthomasurology@gmail.com

Guyana’s Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony and the Ministry of Health on Saturday hailed the contributions of former Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for the Americas, Dr Carissa Etienne who passed away suddenly on Friday. “The Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony is saddened ...

On December 1st, the Healthy Caribbean Coaliiton (HCC) co-hosted The 2023 Conference on the Harmful Use of Alcohol in the English-Speaking Caribbean alongside its partners, The UWI Faculty of Medical Sciences, St. Augustine and the Eastern Caribbean Health Outcomes Research Network (ECHORN). The Conference was held at the UWI St. Augustine Campus, and live-streamed via the Zoom platform in recognition of the 8th Caribbean Alcohol Reduction Day (CARD).

This hybrid conference event was conceptualized by HCC Alcohol Policy Advisor, Professor Rohan Maharaj, and featured presentations from regional academics and public health experts, working in the field of alcohol research and policy. Seventeen (17) presentations were delivered, covering a wide range of topics including the impact of alcohol on public health, regional policy interventions, and the latest research findings. Lay summaries from those presentations can be found here: (click on the images below to enlarge)

The HCC and partners, with the support of PAHO, have hosted annual CARD events over the last seven years, under various themes and titles: The Misuse of Alcohol (2016); Drink Less, Reduce Cancer (2017); Youth: Let’s Talk about Alcohol (2018); Women and Alcohol (2019); Alcohol and COVID-19 (2020); Live Better, Drink Less: Challenges and Opportunities in the Caribbean (2021) and ‘The WHO Global Alcohol Action Plan (GAAP) 2022-2030 – Priorities / Implications for the Caribbean’ (2022).

This year’s hybrid conference theme was entitled “Alcohol Research- Evidence for Action and attracted over 100 virtual and 36 in-person attendees.

The objectives of the Conference and by extension, CARD 2023, were:

1. To provide an update on regional progress and priorities in alcohol policy development and implementation including discussion of barriers and opportunities.
2. To showcase alcohol research from across the English-speaking Caribbean.
3. To discuss how to better utilize research to advocate for accelerated implementation of alcohol policies in the Caribbean.
4. To highlight alcohol advocacy.

Throughout the day, four (4) sessions were held surrounding the issues of alcohol and population-based studies, regional policy, social impact and medical issues. Each session was followed by a brief Q&A segment.

• Download the Concept Note
• Download the Conference Abstract Supplement

The HCC and partners have held an annual Caribbean Alcohol Reduction Days (CARD) since 2016 you can find details of the other CARD days here.

The post 8th Caribbean Alcohol Reduction Day (CARD) 2023 appeared first on Healthy Caribbean Coalition.

“The fans will be strategically placed throughout various areas of the hospital and will significantly improve the overall atmosphere”

View the full post ACB Grenada Bank helps beat heat at General Hospital on NOW Grenada.

Statement on the passing of PAHO Director Emeritus, Dr. Carissa F. Etienne

Cristina Mitchell

1 Dec 2023