Women’s Health, Measles Elimination: The Week in Health

This week, the World Economic Forum (WEF) highlighted persistent gaps in women’s health investment, Mexico took policy steps toward universal healthcare, and key moves by Novo Nordisk shaped access and leadership in the sector.

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WEF, BCG Report US$100-Billion Gap in Women’s Health Investment

Women’s health attracts just 6% of private health care investment globally, despite women representing half of the world’s population, according to a new report from the World Economic Forum (WEF) and Boston Consulting Group. The imbalance, the report finds, leaves major health needs underfunded while constraining economic participation and growth, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Mexico Outlines Steps to Build Universal Health System

Mexico is moving toward the consolidation of a Universal Health Service designed to guarantee access to healthcare for the entire population, says David Kershenobich, Minister of Health, during the 80th anniversary of the National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition Salvador Zubirán (INCMNSZ). During the event, Kershenobich said that health is a constitutional right and a public good that must be ensured through strong institutions, interinstitutional coordination, and long-term state policies. 

Novo Nordisk Launches Wegovy Pill for Weight Management

Novo Nordisk has made available the Wegovy pill in the United States, marking the first time a GLP-1 medicine for weight management is offered in an oral, once-daily formulation. The approval, granted by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Dec. 22, 2025, expands treatment options for adults living with obesity or overweight with related medical conditions and underscores the company’s focus on broadening access to evidence-based therapies.

PAHO to Review Measles Elimination in Mexico, United States

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has called a virtual meeting with health authorities from the United States and Mexico on Apr. 13, 2026, to reassess both countries’ measles elimination status following recent outbreaks. “Measles is the world's most contagious virus, and these data show once again how it will exploit any gap in our collective defenses against it,” says Tedros Adhanom, Director General, World Health Organization (WHO). “Measles does not respect borders, but when every child in every community is vaccinated against it, costly outbreaks can be avoided, lives can be saved, and this disease can be eliminated from entire nations.”

Novo Nordisk México Names Patricia Field as Director General

Novo Nordisk México has appointed Patricia Field as its new Director General, placing an executive with regional and global experience in charge of the affiliate as the company seeks to expand access to treatments for chronic diseases and strengthen its innovation strategy in the country.