E-Prescription Market to Skyrocket: The Week in Health

This week, the e-prescribing market is poised for rapid expansion, whileTijuana’s medical tourism sector faces heightened scrutiny following multiple patient deaths linked to uncertified clinics. In pharmaceutical research, GLP-1 medications show potential cognitive and addiction-related benefits but also raise health concerns, while the growing awareness of alcohol’s effects is fueling the mindful drinking movement. 

In other news, Thermo Fisher Scientific has introduced Olink Reveal, a new proteomics tool designed to make biomarker research more accessible by integrating with existing sequencing platforms.

This is The Week in Health!

E-Prescribing Market Growth Driven by Innovation, Regulation

The global e-prescribing market is poised for rapid growth, with forecasts predicting a compound annual growth rate of 21.87% from 2023 to 2029, reaching a projected value of US$5.57 billion by the end of the period, reports Research and Markets. This expansion is driven by advances in technology, regulatory support, and the increasing adoption of digital healthcare solutions across public and private sectors.

Tijuana’s Medical Tourism Under Scrutiny Following Patient Deaths

Tijuana's reputation as a hub for medical tourism is under scrutiny following multiple fatalities linked to cosmetic and bariatric surgeries. With more than 2 million people traveling annually for medical procedures, Tijuana has emerged as a key destination for affordable care, particularly in plastic surgery. However, patient deaths in uncertified clinics are casting a shadow over the industry’s growth, reports the World Council for Medical Tourism.

GLP-1 Medications Linked to Cognitive Benefits, Health Risks

A new study published in Nature Medicine reveals that GLP-1 medications, commonly prescribed for diabetes management, may offer significant cognitive and behavioral health benefits. These include a reduced risk of dementia and addiction to substances such as alcohol, opioids, and cannabis. However, the study also highlights potential risks associated with the use of these medications, including gastrointestinal issues and kidney problems.

Mindful Drinking Rises As Awareness of Alcohol’s Effects Grows

A growing awareness of the dangers of alcohol consumption is giving rise to the “mindful drinking” movement, as more people choose to reduce or eliminate alcohol for health and wellness reasons. 

Thermo Fisher Introduces Affordable High-Plex Proteomics Tool

Thermo Fisher Scientific has introduced Olink Reveal, a new proteomics solution designed to lower the barriers of cost and complexity for researchers studying circulating biomarkers. By integrating with existing next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms, the new kits eliminate the need for specialized equipment and expertise, making high-plex proteomics more accessible across various research fields, says the company.