COVID-19 Attention Shifted to Prevalent Diseases Awareness

Measures regarding the pandemic have eased. However, we are far from confirming that COVID-19 is over. Omicron subvariants have led pharmaceuticals to offer another booster. While COVID-19 is still hogging the spotlight, the focus shifted to prevalent diseases such as colorectal cancer, diabetes and tuberculosis this week. Increased awareness of these diseases aims to prioritize equally life threating health problems. The health industry needs to address all health problems and digitization is playing an important role in the achievement of this objective. “Medical institutions had to adapt by using the best technology available,” said Luiz Reis, Growth Director, Bionexo Latam.

In Mexico, the health sector is experiencing integration promoted by the IMSS-Bienestar program. However, not all governments are willing to adhere to the program, such as Guanajuato. Experts have also been skeptical on the capability of the program to meet the health sector’s needs.

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Pharmaceuticals Urge for New COVID-19 Booster Shot

Despite the lack of approval from the scientific community, Pfizer and Moderna have requested FDA authorization for another booster amid concerns regarding Omicron subvariant BA.2. Preliminary results, however, have shown that a third shot might already provide long-lasting immunity in most cases and an observation study on Israel found that a fourth shot against COVID-19 provided only slightly higher levels of protection against infection. Find out more about the concerns and evidence supporting further vaccination here.

How DHL Delivered 2 Billion Vaccines

With the guidance of McKinsey, DHL transported 2 billion COVID-19 vaccines to more than 175 countries worldwide in ultra-freezing packaging. Digitization and technology are part of DHL’s main pillars which have helped meet customer needs through innovation. But what will happen in terms of distribution after COVID-19 becomes endemic? Liliana Castillo, Head of Life Sciences and Chemicals Sales, DGF Mexico DHL, answers.

Colorectal Cancer Is Treatable if Diagnosed Early

Colorectal Cancer is the second most common cancer suffered by Mexican men and the fourth most common among women. In March, Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, health institutions invite the population to undergo regular checks to prevent a late diagnosis that could lead to health, emotional and economic consequences. Learn about the recommendations to prevent colorectal cancer here.

Sanofi Recognizes Mexican Advances in the Treatment of Diabetes

Best practices, technology and innovation, dissemination of information, education and counselling and patient guidance were the four categories awarded by Sanofi as part of its Diabetes and Cardio Award, tailored to Mexico initiative. These awards aim “to recognize the genius of Mexicans dedicated to healthcare, who are helping to have better control of chronic non-communicable diseases,” said José Escalera, Manager of Public Affairs and Advocacy of the General Medicines Unit, Sanofi. Get to know the winners here.

Children at the Center of WHO’s Tuberculosis Guidelines

The COVID-19 pandemic and Russia-Ukraine conflict have created obstacles for tuberculosis patients.  For the first time in over a decade, the number of deaths due to tuberculosis has increased. Children and adolescents are the ones who have been more affected. To address this scenario, the WHO, published guidelines for countries to adopt in order to save young lives.

Is Universal Coverage in the Hands of INSABI or IMSS-Bienestar?

Although IMSS-Bienestar will guarantee the right to health regardless of any adherence to social security institutions, concerns have arisen amid the unclear implementation process. Experts, such as Julio Frenk, Former Minister of Health, are convinced that IMSS-Bienestar will be unable to fulfil its assigned task. Learn more about the reasons for skepticism on IMSS-Bienestar.

Guanajuato Will Not be Part of IMSS-Bienestar

Guanajuato has relied on the voluntary character of the adherence to IMSS-Bienestar to reject its implementation in the state. The state offers medical services to its 46 municipalities amid the punctual arrival of federal resources, said Daniel Díaz, Guanajuato's Minister of Health. Medicines, medical attention, equipment and maintenance are guaranteed in the state, he added. Although states are not obligated to be part of the program, the president has shown reluctance towards governments that will not be part of the integration of the health system.

A Healthcare Mindset Shift: Why Is Digital Transition Important?

Data storage through the cloud, high standards of care and digital platforms within the health sector are results of its transformation amid the COVID-19 pandemic. “The industry needed to provide medical service to a large number of users that grew like a snowball every week,” said Luiz Reis, Growth Director, Bionexo Latam, to MBN. Learn why its digital transition important in the health sector, here.