Advancing Neurodevelopmental Care, Setback in LGBTQIA+ Rights

In Mexico, neurodevelopmental care reaches new heights with the country hosting the sole assisted cognitive habilitation unit in Latin America. However, challenges persist for the LGBTQIA+ community in accessing healthcare, despite advances in securing equal rights. In other news, the recent Memorandum of Understanding between ImmunoACT and IPN signals significant progress in Mexico's fight against cancer. 

This is The Week in Health!

LGBTQIA+ Community Struggles to Access Healthcare in Mexico

In Mexico, the LGBTQIA+ community faces ongoing challenges when it comes to accessing healthcare services. Despite advances in societal acceptance and legal rights, disparities persist, creating obstacles that hinder overall well-being and obstruct the realization of equal and inclusive healthcare. Studies have revealed that LGBTQIA+ individuals have been asked to hide their sexual orientation or gender identity to receive adequate care. This practice not only fosters a sense of shame and self-suppression but also reinforces the harmful stigmas surrounding their identities. Learn more about it here. 

Mexico Leads in Neurodevelopmental Care in Latin America

The Institute of Pediatrics, overseen by the Mexican Ministry of Health, has the only assisted cognitive habilitation unit (ACHU) in Latin America. This state-of-the-art facility offers pioneering therapies and support to individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities. The Ministry of Health reports that the ACHU operates with an interdisciplinary team consisting of experts in neuropsychology, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and pediatrics. Through 10 to 15 sessions lasting 45 to 60 minutes, the ACHU caters to approximately 120 patients monthly, providing personalized and comprehensive treatment tailored to each individual's needs. Read more about it here. 

Strengthening Healthcare in Tamaulipas

Mexico's Ministry of Health has highlighted the importance of federalizing healthcare to strengthen services nationwide. The evaluation of the IMSS-Bienestar Health Plan in Tamaulipas underscores the significance of qualified personnel and improved accessibility through the transfer of infrastructure to IMSS-Bienestar. Governor Américo Villarreal Anaya views this transformation as a pivotal change in Mexico's healthcare landscape. Read the complete article here. 

Mexico, India Sign Memorandum of Understanding on Immunotherapy

A significant milestone was achieved in Mexico's medical history with the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ImmunoACT, an Indian biotech company, and Mexico's National Polytechnic Institute (IPN) and the Salvador Zubirán National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition (INCMNSZ). This partnership paves the way for cutting-edge cancer treatment technology, particularly in immunotherapy, which activates the body's own cells to fight cancer. Mexico's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Marcelo Ebrard, celebrated the agreement as a means for Mexico to access innovative technologies and advance its fight against cancer. Learn more about it here. 

Unleashing Mexico’s Pharmaceutical Research Potential

Mexico's unique characteristics offer a favorable landscape for pharmaceutical companies to explore. Its strategic proximity to the US, diverse range of diseases and rich genetic and ethnic diversity make it an attractive destination for research. With robust research centers already in place, Mexico is well-positioned to maximize its potential in this field, Sharzy Molina, Director General, FAICIC, told MBN.