Cancer Vaccine, CBD for Epilepsy: The Week in Health

This week, UCLH's trial of a personalized mRNA melanoma vaccine brings hope for tailored immunotherapy based on tumor genetics. Meanwhile, IDB and PAHO join forces to speed up digital health initiatives in Latin America. Additionally, industry experts discuss regulatory hurdles undermining epilepsy patients' access to CBD treatments in Mexico and a shift in our understanding of the aging paradigm towards biological age.

The Week in Health:

Personalized mRNA Melanoma Cancer Vaccine Enters Phase 3 Trial

The University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (UCLH) is spearheading trials for a personalized mRNA cancer vaccine aimed at combating melanoma. The vaccine, known as mRNA-4157 (V940), is engineered to the unique genetic profile of each patient's tumor. By harnessing the body's immune system, this therapy holds immense potential to revolutionize melanoma treatment, offering hope to patients and pushing the boundaries of cancer immunotherapy. Read the whole story here.

IDB, PAHO to Accelerate Digital Health in LATAM

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO) have joined forces to accelerate the digital transformation of health services, bolster primary healthcare, and fortify pandemic preparedness across Latin America and the Caribbean. This partnership will be instrumental in taking more effective actions towards a healthier future for everyone in the region, according to Jarbas Barbosa, Director, PAHO. Learn more about it here.

CBD: The Overlooked Ally for Patients With Epilepsy

Epilepsy often requires lifelong treatment with pharmaceuticals that can have severe side effects, prompting interest in alternative treatments like cannabidiol (CBD). While research shows CBD can effectively reduce seizures and improve quality of life, regulatory hurdles in Mexico hinder access to safe and tested products, leaving patients at risk and families desperate for better solutions, explains Raúl Elizalde Garza, CEO, HempMeds. Read his whole article here.

Redefining Aging - The Power of Functional Medicine and Genetics

The understanding of aging is evolving, with a focus shifting from chronological age to biological age, measured at a cellular level. Advanced tools like the "AgeTest" by nutriADN offer insights into biological aging, allowing for personalized longevity programs that emphasize preventive care, lifestyle modifications, and targeted supplements to optimize healthspan and quality of life, according to Gustavo Rodríguez Leal, NutriADN, Founder & CEO.