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Hi! Today we see that prime editing works nicely in monkeys, learn more about the potential new bill to speed treatments for life-threatening diseases, and find that a Regeneron (formerly Decibel) therapy may restore hearing in children.

The need-to-know this morning
• Sanofi said it will spin out its consumer health unit and cut costs in other areas in order to increase spending on research and development of new medicines. Separately, the French pharma giant reported third-quarter earnings and revenue that fell short of analyst consensus. Sanofi reiterated its financial forecast for the remainder of the year, but new, long-range guidance for 2024 and 2025 implies financial results lower than current analyst estimates.
• Abbvie reported adjusted third-quarter earnings of $2.95 per share, beating the consensus estimate. Revenue was $13.93 billion, down 6% year over year but better than consensus. Sales of the arthritis medicine Humira fell 36% from the previous year to $3.5 billion, largely due to generic competition, but were still in line with consensus. The company raised financial guidance for the remainder of the year.
• The FDA approved a new treatment for ulcerative colitis made by Eli Lilly. As Jonathan Wosen reports, the drug, called Omvoh, is the first to target an immune signaling pathway that plays a key role in sustaining the chronic, gastrointestinal disease.

Continue to STAT+ to read the full story…

This is the opinion of the international expert Javier Marin, director for Latin America of Healthcare of Llorente y Cuenca (LLYC) when he was interviewed during a visit to the editorial office of Listin Diario.

The specialist emphasized that the control of health conditions affecting the population is not only the responsibility of the State and that service companies, clinics, pharmaceutical companies, laboratories, and diagnostic centers must play a more empowering role in the health care of the population.

Marín was in the country participating as a speaker at the congress “Innovation, Trends and Challenges: where we must move,” held last weekend by the Association of Representatives, Agents and Pharmaceutical Producers, Inc (ARAPF).

He understands that companies must stop considering only suppliers and start getting more involved in society’s health care.

Effective communication

With dengue, Marín said that if companies get involved and work directly with the State, there would be better results in prevention and response and that effective communication is fundamental because, many times, the aggravation of cases of a particular disease occurs mainly because people confuse the symptoms and arrive late to the health system.

He explained that in the activity organized by ARAPF, he explained how communication can contribute to improving the reasoning of companies’ impact in improving health in each country.

He said that the sustainability of health systems must be considered.

He said that sometimes it is thought that this sustainability is the responsibility of the State, without understanding that the companies involved in the sector cannot be seen only as suppliers and that the individual himself assumes a more empowered role in health care.

He pointed out that at LLYC, they study the challenges facing healthcare systems. He said that governments must establish processes to monitor what is happening and, above all, to know what the population is feeling, to analyze volumes of data, and to take immediate action.

He emphasized that social networks are of great importance in monitoring because people express themselves without filters, and they make it possible to understand what is happening in some regions of the country and about specific health conditions, including what is happening with the high incidence of non-communicable diseases.

The denunciation was made by the Technical Cabinet, whose spokesperson was the former Minister of Health, Rafael Sánchez Cárdenas, who expressed that the Government manipulates the epidemiological bulletins, added to an absence of orientation campaign to deal with the disease and a notorious insensitivity of its officials.

“President, this is not about some methodological error, at the same time we share the criterion that these facts are totally dishonest and that they call into question the touted transparency,” expressed Sánchez Cárdenas, in the company of other PLD leaders.

Writers Association of Grenada put out a casting call for practitioners across various creative disciplines to be held on 28 October at the Grenada National Museum

View the full post The arts against gender-based violence in Grenada on NOW Grenada.

Measles is a highly infectious disease that is prevented by vaccines and has not been present in the Dominican Republic since 2001. In Canada, there are eight cases; Chile has one case of measles, and the United States has 29 confirmed cases.

The Vice Minister of Collective Health, Dr. Eladio Perez, read the epidemiological alert issued for the Dominican Republic. The country was declared free of the disease in 2010.

However, they are maintaining and intensifying surveillance to avoid the arrival of the disease affecting children in the country.

Mario Lama, vice minister of Collective Health and executive director of the National Health Service, respectively.

Greater Santo Domingo has 350 beds for dengue patients, primarily children. Dr. Lama said the Hugo Mendoza and Robert Reid Cabral hospitals have the highest bed demand.

In the last 24 hours, 100 patients were admitted, said Dr. Lama; the reduction is about 16%, especially in the previous 72 hours.

Those admitted
In the Metropolitan region, 315 people were admitted yesterday with suspected dengue fever; of those with PCR test, 39 have tested positive for the disease. It was announced that seven more intensive care beds would be opened in the mother and child area of the Marcelino Velez Santana hospital in the next few hours.

30 to 50 additional beds are also expected to be opened in the Mario Tolentino Dipp hospital.

Pressure for beds
The National Association of Private Clinics has been collaborating to habilitate more beds to attend to patients with dengue. Minister Daniel Rivera offered the information. However, the public network is trying to reserve beds for patients with other diseases.

The country currently has several circulating viruses, including respiratory syncytial, rhinovirus, influenza, and adenovirus. Health authorities perform PCR tests to detect dengue in less time.

Tests

The Ministry of Health said that, through the Doctor Defilló National Laboratory, specialized PCR tests are being performed to detect dengue in the shortest possible time and quickly diagnose the disease. The data are by the standards required for notifiable diseases, and PCR tests are performed for a faster diagnosis.

The secret of avoiding heart disease could come down to which foods are on — or off — your plate.

While you can’t control factors such as age or family history, the choice to adopt a heart-healthy diet can help reduce your risk.

"The goal is not to go on a temporary diet for rapid weight loss, but to make good lifestyle choices to promote well-being permanently," said Dr. Bradley Serwer, a cardiologist and chief medical officer at VitalSolution, a Cincinnati-based company that offers cardiovascular and anesthesiology services to hospitals nationwide.

MEDITERRANEAN DIET COULD HELP REDUCE BELLY FAT AND MUSCLE LOSS CAUSED BY AGING, STUDY FINDS

Serwer and other cardiologists shared with Fox News Digital their nutrition advice for reducing the risk of coronary disease and heart attacks.

Here are some of their tips.

"Foods that contain high levels of trans fats, which are found in many fried foods, are some of the worst offenders," Serwer said. 

Trans saturated fats are artificially created, he noted. They raise levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as bad cholesterol, while at the same time lowering high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or good cholesterol. 

ASK A DOC: 'HOW CAN I PREVENT HIGH CHOLESTEROL?'

"High levels of bad cholesterol promote coronary atherosclerosis, also known as clogged arteries," Serwer warned.

Dr. Alexander Postalian, a cardiologist at the Texas Heart Institute, warned that simple carbohydrates — including bread and potatoes — are the primary enemy. 

"They get absorbed quickly, raise blood sugar and can get converted into ‘bad’ cholesterol," he said.

Other examples of simple carbohydrates include sugary drinks, sweets, rice and tortillas.

Foods rich in saturated fats, which include red meat, also raise LDL levels, increasing the risk of heart disease, said Serwer.

BE WELL: ADD AN EGG (OR 3) TO YOUR DAILY DIET FOR HEART HEALTH

Dr. Leonard Ganz, chief medical officer and divisional vice president of medical affairs at Abbott’s cardiac rhythm management business in Sylmar, California, told Fox News Digital that when bacteria in the gut break down meat, one of the metabolites produced is TMAO (trimethylamine N-oxide) — which may increase the risk of heart and kidney disease, as well as type 2 diabetes. 

"In particular, processed meats such as bacon and sausage have nitrates that may increase inflammation and sodium, ultimately raising blood pressure that may be associated with inflammation," he added.

Dairy also falls into the category of high saturated fats, Serwer said, making it a food to limit or avoid for optimal heart health.

While butter, cream and ice cream are not heart-healthy, the American Heart Association says that reduced-fat yogurt, cheese and milk are safer options for people who have high cholesterol or a history of heart disease.

Foods that are high in sugar, especially those containing high-fructose corn syrup, increase the risk of obesity and diabetes, Serwer warned. 

"Obesity and diabetes are independent risk factors for coronary artery disease, which further adds fuel to the fire for developing atherosclerosis," he added.

YOUR DIABETES RISK MAY DOUBLE IF YOU EAT THIS FOOD TWICE A WEEK, SAY HARVARD RESEARCHERS

Foods high in sugar and processed carbohydrates, such as white bread, soda and candy, can raise blood glucose levels, increasing the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and stroke, according to Ganz.

While some amount of sodium is essential for the human body, too much can cause blood pressure to spike, raising the risk of heart attack and stroke, experts say.

Some common culprits include deli meats, canned soups and veggies, frozen meals and prepared sauces.

"These typically have a combination of all the worst offenders, to include trans fats, saturated fats, high sodium and sugar," Serwer said.

ULTRA-PROCESSED FOOD CONSUMPTION LINKED TO HIGHER RISK OF DEATH FROM OVARIAN, BREAST CANCERS: NEW STUDY

These convenience foods are uniquely designed to promote atherosclerosis "in a very effective manner" and should be avoided as much as possible, the doctor advised.

While there is some data to support red wine in moderation, excess alcohol has a direct toxic effect on the heart, Serwer warned.

"Alcoholic drinks are also high in calories and sodium, and can contribute to obesity and high blood pressure," he said.

"These are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering blood pressure and improving overall cardiovascular health," Serwer said.

"There is excellent data for plant-based diets lowering the risk of heart disease — particularly those that are high in fiber," he added.

Green, leafy vegetables provide vitamins and minerals, while nitrates also contribute to healthy blood vessel function, said Ganz.

'TOP 8' FOOD CHALLENGE: WHAT IT MEANS, PLUS EXPERTS' TIPS FOR NAVIGATING NUTRITIONAL NEEDS

"Citrus fruits are also high in potassium, which can lower blood pressure," he added.

Although fruits are rich in simple carbohydrates (simple sugars), Postalian said they are beneficial when eaten in moderation.

"Fruits contain fiber that supports digestion, which slows the absorption of sugar," he said.

These include wheat, oats and brown rice, all of which provide complex carbohydrates and fiber that can help lower bad cholesterol levels, Serwer said.

"Skinless chicken, fish, legumes and nuts are an excellent source of protein without the saturated fat that's often found in red meat," said Serwer.

Some of the lean proteins Postalian recommends include grilled fish, grilled chicken and vegetables — "without a lot of dressing, as these can sneak in additional sugar and calories," he added. 

These foods qualify as healthy fats, Serwer said.

"Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are an excellent source to help improve cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation," he added.

OLIVE OIL IS POPULAR AMONG AMERICANS, BUT IS IT GOOD FOR YOU?

Some fatty fish that are highest in omega-3s include salmon, bluefin tuna, anchovies, herring, mackerel, black cod, sardines, whitefish, striped bass and cobia, according to the American Heart Association.

These foods are all part of the Mediterranean diet, which has long been linked to improved heart health.

Added Ganz, "Fish high in omega-3 fatty acids are great sources of protein and have been associated with lower blood pressure, a better lipid profile and a lower risk of arrhythmia."

Also part of the Mediterranean diet, oils and foods high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats have antioxidant effects and contribute to blood vessel health, Ganz said. 

"Olive oil is the most obvious example, but other oils, including safflower, sunflower and sesame — and some nuts, such as walnuts and almonds — have similar effects," he added.

Studies have shown that drinking enough water helps maintain healthy sodium levels, which plays a part in preventing heart disease.

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"Proper hydration also helps support overall health and helps avoid injuring the kidneys," Serwer added.

This heart-healthy treat is an unexpected bonus, Ganz said. 

"This dessert is rich in flavonoids, which have antioxidants and blood pressure-lowering effects," he noted.

Beyond choosing the right foods, Serwer pointed out that portion control is "paramount" to avoiding obesity and coronary artery disease.

Postalian agreed, adding, "Being mindful of the energy balance to maintain a healthy weight is very important — how many calories come in, with food, versus how many go out, with exercise and metabolism."

For more Health articles, visit foxnews.com/health

This was revealed by Alejandro Cambiaso, president of the Dominican Association of Health Tourism (ADTS), and Amelia Reyes Mora, president of AF Comunicación Estratégica, as they unveiled the details of the 6th International Congress on Health and Wellness Tourism to be held from November 1-3 in Santo Domingo and will bring together more than 40 national and international exhibitors.

The event organizers announced part of the results of the second diagnostic study of health and wellness tourism, which offers updated post-pandemic data, which will be presented in its entirety during the congress.

They explained that the country’s position as a health tourism destination is obtained through international measurements where more than 40 variables are evaluated.

According to Listín Diario, they informed that the local quality seal is being developed and will be issued for centers that fulfill all the qualification requirements to enter health tourism.

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Public Health authorities acknowledged on Wednesday that there is currently a “pressure” of dengue cases in at least two hospitals in Greater Santo Domingo.

He specified that currently, in the Metropolitan Health Network, are 315 patients admitted with symptoms related to dengue, of which 39 cases have been confirmed.

Given these statistics, Lama affirmed their “quite low” positivity. He added that all patients with suspected dengue are being followed up.

The head of the National Health Service also added that the 13 hospitals assigned to the SNS have set up 350 beds exclusively for dengue patients.

He specified that they have some 600 additional beds at the national level.

According to the director of the National Health Service (SNS), Mario Lama, most dengue cases are concentrated in the pediatric hospitals, Robert Reid Cabral and Hugo Mendoza. He also mentioned the Santo Socorro. However, the latter does not enable hospitalizations because it is being renovated, so they only assist in the emergency area.

Lama assured that in the last 72 hours, they have noticed a reduction in the number of dengue cases about admissions. They estimate that the hospitals of the Metropolitan Network received an average of 98 patients in the last three days, highlighting that they were around 115 last week.

“We are showing a reduction of between 15 and 16% in relation to admissions”, he pointed out.

He also pointed out that the children’s margin unit of the Marcelino Vélez Hospital will be opened tomorrow, Thursday, which will have an intensive care unit and will provide seven new beds to the system.

“Undoubtedly, this will take some pressure off while the measures to strengthen the fight against dengue begin to generate the expected responses,” he said.

He called on the population to go to the hospitals for assistance in case of any suspicion of dengue.

The data shows that 34,955 houses were fumigated and de-securitized, in addition to the delivery of educational material and other activities aimed at counteracting the spread of the disease in various areas of the country.

The social mobilization carried out during these two days involved the various entities grouped in the Cabinet of Action against Dengue, which also applied some 6,924 units of abate (larvicide), which serves to prevent the production of larvae in tanks and other containers used in water storage for domestic use.

Also, during the day, 1,372 posters or promotional materials were distributed among the 6,991 households visited, and hygiene kits containing chlorine, sponges to smear the tanks, and brochures, among others, were handed out. Fumigation actions were carried out in 56 sectors.

The Ministry of Public Health informed that, with the massive fumigations, the aim is to help reduce the vector population significantly so that the registered cases should decrease in the next few days.

In addition, the Health agency noted that the interventions seek to reduce the intensity of transmission during epidemics and reduce multiple infections of the disease, thus improving environmental health, among other actions, and recalling that dengue serotype three is the most abundant and that this did not circulate in the country since 2019.

From Monday 23 until Friday 27, the eight Health Areas of the Ministry of Health, in coordination with the General Directorate of Strategic and Special Projects (PROPEEP) and other agencies, are intervening in the sectors Mina and Barrio Peña, Guanuma, Sierra Prieta, Mata Mamón, Barrios La Ciénaga, Proyecto habitacional La Zurza and Villas Agrícolas, Capotillo, Cristo Rey, as well as Ensanche Kennedy, Mejoramiento Social, Las Cañitas, San Juan Bosco, San Miguel, Antonio Duvergé and Buenos Aires.

Also, La Agustina, Cristo Rey, Los Girasoles, Los Ríos, Las Caoba, La yuca and Pueblo Nuevo, Pantoja, Pedro Brand and Pueblo Nuevo.

This Tuesday, operations were carried out in Tamarindo, La Zurza, San Juan de la Maguana, 36 Norte, Emma Balaguer, Los Mártires, Máximo Gómez and 35 A streets, as well as the delivery of dengue induction and prevention material and other actions in 21 highway, in Ovando Avenue, Duarte, Moca Street, Callejón Progreso, Obrero and the back 21 in the Villas Agrícolas sector, as well as in Villa María, in Betances, San Martín, Osvaldo Basil, 15, 11 and Máximo Grullón streets. Some 28,312 people have been deployed by the various institutions that make up the Emergency Operations Center COE during the first day of the National Day of Action against Dengue.

The Ministry of Public Health confirms that these campaigns will continue throughout the national territory during the present week.