Obesity triggers neurodegeneration by inducing brain insulin resistance
In a pivotal study conducted by Mroj Alassaf and colleagues at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in the United States, a novel connection between obesity and the onset of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, has been uncovered.
The research, employing the biological model of the common fruit fly, indicates that diets high in sugar, which are commonly associated with obesity, lead to insulin resistance within the brain. This resistance hampers the brain’s capacity to eliminate cellular waste, which in turn elevates the risk of neurodegenerative conditions.
The findings, released on November 7 in the open-access publication PLOS Biology, promise to be influential in the development of medical interventions aimed at mitigating the chances of neurodegenerative disease onset.
While the correlation between obesity and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s has been acknowledged in scientific circles, the causal mechanisms at play have eluded researchers until now.
The team’s research delved into this conundrum by leveraging the genetic and physiological parallels between fruit flies and humans. Building on prior knowledge that a diet rich in sugar instigates insulin resistance in the peripheral tissues of fruit flies, the focus now shifted to their neural tissues. The study zoomed in on glial cells, as abnormalities in microglia are recognised contributors to neuronal decay.
The study measured the protein PI3k—a biomarker for insulin sensitivity in cells. The high-sugar diet was found to diminish PI3k levels in glial cells, suggesting a state of insulin resistance. The team also examined the fruit fly’s version of microglia, known as ensheathing glia, responsible for clearing out neuronal waste, including deteriorating axons.
These glial cells exhibited depleted levels of Draper, a protein integral to their waste-removal function, indicating a compromised ability. Subsequent experiments demonstrated that artificially reducing PI3k levels not only caused insulin resistance but also led to decreased Draper levels in the ensheathing glia. Moreover, when the team inflicted damage on olfactory neurons, the ensheathing glia of sugar-fed flies failed to clear the resulting neuronal debris due to their unresponsive Draper levels.
The researchers conclude by stating that their work with fruit flies has established that high-sugar diets induce insulin resistance in glial cells, which disrupts their neuronal cleanup role. This study sheds light on the potential pathways through which diets leading to obesity may elevate the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Read MoreThe limited impact of Ozempic on the U.S. obesity epidemic
The term ‘obesity’ elicits a range of interpretations. Some view it as merely another way to describe excess weight, while others perceive it as a derogatory label for larger body sizes. Still, some consider it a reflection of personal failings, such as a lack of discipline or willpower. However, for over a decade, the medical field has acknowledged obesity as a chronic health condition, akin to diseases like cancer, diabetes, and hypertension. This disease significantly elevates the risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes, is connected to numerous health complications, and is responsible for approximately 4 million preventable deaths annually. Moreover, obesity manifests in various forms, with diverse origins, clinical signs, and treatment responses.
The surge in popularity of GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro has somewhat simplified this complex issue. These drugs are often hailed as the ultimate solution to obesity, a perspective that overlooks the multifaceted nature of the condition. Unfortunately, Ozempic alone cannot address America’s obesity crisis. Obesity extends beyond mere physical inactivity or excessive eating. It’s influenced by a range of factors including genetic predispositions, mental health, socio-economic conditions, and environmental factors.
In clinical settings, the variation in obesity cases is significant. For instance, a mutation in the MC4R gene is associated with an 18% increased likelihood of obesity, while certain antipsychotic medications can lead to substantial weight gain. Although GLP-1 medications can be beneficial, they primarily address hormonal imbalances and do not tackle other contributing factors. This reductionist approach is also evident in the use of Body Mass Index (BMI) to diagnose obesity. BMI, initially designed for white European males, often inaccurately represents obesity levels in different ethnic groups, leading the American Medical Association to advise against its sole use. Currently, a global commission of experts is redefining obesity, moving away from height and weight measurements to focus on specific symptoms and signs.
The response to treatment among patients with obesity also varies greatly. For example, the GLP-1 drug Wegovy showed an average body weight reduction of 16% in a study, yet individual results ranged widely. This underscores the need for personalised treatment plans rather than a singular drug-based approach. However, the U.S. healthcare system faces significant challenges in this regard. With only a small number of physicians specialised in obesity treatment and federal restrictions on covering obesity medications, only a fraction of those who could benefit from such treatments receive them. Instead, many are advised to simply eat less and exercise more, a strategy that overlooks the complexity of obesity.
Effective obesity treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach, combining diet, exercise, behavioural therapy, medication, and sometimes surgery. Unfortunately, the scarcity of specialised physicians and the prevalence of misleading diet products and scams exacerbate the issue. The U.S. weight loss market, valued at $160 billion in 2023, is a testament to this. Moreover, misconceptions about GLP-1 medications, such as the idea that they are a cure-all for obesity, lead to unrealistic expectations and criticisms. Like insulin or hypertension treatments, discontinuing GLP-1 drugs can result in a reversal of their effects, a fact that should be recognised rather than criticised.
Addressing obesity, which costs the U.S. around $1.7 trillion annually, requires acknowledging the progress made with GLP-1 drugs while also understanding their limitations. A holistic, patient-centred, and empathetic approach to obesity treatment is essential. This approach should not only address the unique needs and circumstances of each individual but also aim to improve overall health and well-being. While medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro offer significant potential, they are not the all-encompassing solution often portrayed in the media. A broader, more nuanced understanding and response to obesity is crucial for effective management and treatment.
Read MoreAstraZeneca makes big push into obesity treatment with new pill partnership
AstraZeneca, the United Kingdom’s pharmaceutical giant, has entered a strategic partnership with Eccogene, a Shanghai-based biotech firm, to co-develop a groundbreaking pill designed to combat obesity and type 2 diabetes.
This alliance marks AstraZeneca’s significant foray into the burgeoning sector of weight management medications, underpinned by an exclusive licensing contract focusing on an investigational drug, ECC5004. The said compound is touted to address not only obesity but also a spectrum of cardiometabolic disorders, including heart disease and stroke, ailments afflicting over a billion people worldwide.
Eccogene is poised to receive payments that could sum up to a substantial $2 billion, which is approximately £1.6 billion, as per the agreed terms.
ECC5004 is currently undergoing phase 1 trials, with AstraZeneca setting its sights on advancing to phase 2 clinical evaluations by the subsequent year’s end. Additionally, the pharma titan is nurturing two other nascent-stage injectable obesity therapies.
The innovative ECC5004, if it passes clinical muster, is envisioned to be administered orally once daily, a standalone treatment or potentially in conjunction with other drugs targeting various cardiometabolic diseases. This positions it distinctively against the prevailing injectables that are typically administered weekly.
Operating as a GLP-1 agonist, ECC5004 is designed to replicate the function of the GLP-1 hormone, which is naturally secreted post-food intake.
Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca’s CEO, highlighted the critical demand for effective obesity interventions across Western nations, Latin America, and South Asia, where abdominal obesity is rampant, precipitating heightened risks of hypertension and diabetes.
Soriot indicated that while the journey to market might span several years, ECC5004 could potentially be more economically accessible than existing options. Due to its simplified chemical structure that permits cheaper production costs, the drug could cater to a wider demographic, including those in lower-income nations where AstraZeneca maintains a robust footprint.
As the competition intensifies in the international market for obesity drugs, demand has surged for Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Ozempic, prompting supply challenges. With Wegovy’s pricing set at £73.25 per pack monthly on the NHS and reaching £199 at retail pharmacies, its sales and profits have climbed sharply, elevating Novo Nordisk to be Europe’s highest-valued company by market capitalisation.
Notably, Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro has demonstrated superior weight loss outcomes compared to Wegovy and recently secured approvals for weight management in the UK and US. Market analysts from UBS have predicted that Mounjaro could emerge as one of the most successful pharmaceuticals ever, with projected peak sales around £20 billion.
Pharmaceutical titans Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, and Pfizer are all in the race to create oral anti-obesity medications, which promise cost-effectiveness and ease of administration over injections.
Bolstered by its oncology drugs and the diabetes treatment Forxiga, AstraZeneca has reported a 5% revenue increase, totaling $33.8 billion in the year’s first three quarters. The firm also lifted its revenue and profit forecasts for the full year, announcing approvals for additional cancer treatments.
AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine, crafted in collaboration with Oxford University, was pivotal during the pandemic, credited with saving over 6 million lives globally within its inaugural year as per independent assessments.
However, AstraZeneca currently faces two high court cases in London related to the vaccine’s side effects. The company is expected to contest these allegations.
The World Health Organization last year affirmed the vaccine’s safety and efficacy for individuals 18 years and older, labelling TTS occurrences as exceptionally rare and characteristically presenting severe blood clots.
Read MoreNew study finds obesity in pregnancy raises risk of future heart disease
The link between maternal obesity and the long-term risk of cardiovascular disease has been further solidified by new research findings. A study led by Northwestern University in the United States has shone a light on the significant health risks faced by women who enter pregnancy with obesity.
The research team discovered that women with obesity before conception are more susceptible to complications during pregnancy than their counterparts with healthier pre-pregnancy weights. These complications include conditions like pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes, which have previously been associated with an increased risk of heart disease later in life.
The study’s principal investigator, Dr. Sadiya Khan, emphasised that while these pregnancy-related issues can indeed signal future cardiovascular problems, they are not the underlying cause of heart disease. Instead, they merely highlight pre-existing risk factors that become apparent during the metabolic and physical demands of pregnancy.
To reach these conclusions, the researchers analysed health data from 4,216 women who were giving birth for the first time. They observed that those with higher body mass indices (BMIs) in the first trimester had an elevated risk of developing hypertensive disorders during pregnancy than those with BMIs within the normal range.
Dr. Khan explained that the study approached pregnancy as a ‘natural stress test’ for the heart, which could expose pre-existing health concerns. The implications of these findings underscore the importance of addressing pre-pregnancy obesity with proactive health interventions rather than waiting for cardiovascular events to occur.
The research team is advocating for healthcare providers to emphasise the importance of a nutritious diet and regular physical activity during prenatal visits. While weight loss is not recommended during pregnancy, guidance and support for maintaining an appropriate weight gain during this period are crucial.
The study also presented quantitative insights, revealing that among the participants, 4% had gestational diabetes and 15% encountered complications due to high blood pressure.
These findings, which align with prior research advocating for weight management during pregnancy through diet and exercise, have been published in the journal Circulation Research, providing valuable insights for expectant mothers and healthcare professionals alike.
Read MoreObesity’s role in severe flu outcomes unveiled by new study
Researchers in a pivotal study recently featured in Nature Communications have uncovered vital insights into why individuals with obesity are at an elevated risk for severe influenza. This comprehensive investigation combines both human clinical data and animal model analysis to unravel the complexities of immune response in obesity that heighten the vulnerability to influenza.
The global health landscape is facing a critical challenge with the rising prevalence of obesity, affecting over 13% of adults worldwide. The risks associated with obesity have been underscored during viral pandemics, such as the H1N1 outbreak and the recent COVID-19 pandemic, where obesity has been consistently linked with worse outcomes and heightened severity of respiratory infections.
This latest study seeks to bridge the knowledge gap in understanding how obesity mechanistically contributes to increased susceptibility to viral infections, beyond the recognised impacts of altered lung function, cardiovascular issues, and metabolic disturbances.
Researchers embarked on a meticulous study design, sampling blood and airway cells from individuals with obesity —those with a BMI over 35 kg/m^2—undergoing bariatric surgery. The study meticulously matched these participants with control subjects of normal weight, ensuring parity in age, gender, and ethnicity.
The investigative team conducted thorough clinical sampling using state-of-the-art techniques, including blood analysis, nasal synthetic absorptive matrix (SAM) sampling, and bronchoscopy.
A suite of laboratory experiments followed. These involved exposing various cell types, including bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cells and bronchial epithelial cells (BECs), to different strains of influenza viruses. The response of these cells was measured through advanced techniques like RNA extraction, protein quantification, and a range of assays including flow cytometry and metabolomics.
In vivo studies also played a role, with mice models used to examine the effects of administering recombinant mouse leptin followed by influenza virus infection. This holistic approach aimed to dissect the immune response in both the peripheral and airway-specific compartments.
The study’s findings are eye-opening. Contrary to initial assumptions, the researchers found no significant difference in the response of bronchial epithelial cells between individuals with obesity and individuals of a normal-weight, suggesting that epithelial inflammation is not inherently altered in those with obesity during influenza infection.
However, the study did identify a significant compromise in the antiviral responses of BAL macrophages from patients with obesity. These cells displayed a reduced induction of critical interferons, such as IFN-α, IFN-β, and IFN-λ, which are vital components of the body’s antiviral defence system. Moreover, the production of key pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6, IL-8, and TNF was found to be less effective in individuals with obesity.
Metabolomic analysis of the BAL fluid identified significant changes in metabolite levels in patients with obesity, providing a clue to altered biochemical pathways in the lungs due to obesity.
The data from the MOSAIC cohort added a further layer of understanding, highlighting that immune dysregulation in patients with obesity was confined to the airway mucosa, with no significant systemic immune disturbances.
The study’s revelations pave the way for potential therapeutic strategies, including the manipulation of leptin pathways, which may be pivotal in mitigating the risk of severe influenza infections in populations with obesity.
By casting light on the molecular and immunological shifts that occur in the context of obesity, this research could form the foundation for developing tailored interventions that bolster the immune response in this high-risk group, enhancing their resilience to influenza and other viral respiratory infections.
Read MorePfizer aims to enter the obesity treatment arena with danuglipron, a novel GLP-1 targeting pill
In the competitive landscape of obesity pharmacotherapy, Pfizer is on the cusp of revealing pivotal trial data for its investigational drug danuglipron. This oral medication, administered twice daily, is poised to challenge the market dominance of prominent weight-loss therapies Wegovy and Mounjaro.
Danuglipron operates by influencing the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor, which has recently revolutionised the pharmaceutical industry, resulting in substantial economic shifts within the stock market. Through its strategic targeting of this receptor, the drug aims to become a cornerstone in the management of obesity.
Pfizer’s commitment to this endeavour is evident through the initiation of a rigorous Phase 2 trial, designed to thoroughly evaluate danuglipron’s ability to achieve significant weight reduction in individuals with obesity. The financial community, particularly Leerink Partners’ analyst David Risinger, anticipates a full disclosure of the study outcomes potentially by October 31.
For Pfizer, the urgency to diversify its product portfolio has never been greater. The pharmaceutical giant has faced a downturn in its COVID-19 vaccine and therapeutic product demand, compelling a downward revision of its revenue projections. This decline has led to a notable 40% dip in Pfizer’s stock value since the beginning of the year.
The strategic importance of danuglipron has been amplified following Pfizer’s decision in June to discontinue another candidate within its GLP-1 based weight-loss pipeline. The discontinuation was a setback, sharpening the focus on danuglipron as a critical asset in the company’s quest to secure a competitive position in the burgeoning GLP-1 market segment.
As Pfizer prepares to release its findings, the pharmaceutical, obesity care, and weight management industries are watching closely. Danuglipron not only carries the potential to alter the obesity treatment paradigm but also represents a vital opportunity for Pfizer to demonstrate resilience and innovation in the face of shifting healthcare needs. The success of this drug is particularly crucial as Pfizer measures itself against Eli Lilly’s promising GLP-1 oral therapy, which is also vying for a share of this lucrative market.
Read MoreCCH Participates in Independent Ageing Expo and Convention 2023 in Japan
John Feenie, CEO, and Dzidek Sabat, Product Development Manager, attended the Independent Ageing Conference in Aichi, Japan, in mid-October. The Expo attracted over 950 delegates worldwide, drawn to Aichi by Japan’s leadership in various aspects of dementia care, both clinical and societal.
CCH, initially focused on courses in obesity care and, more recently, digital health, has formed a partnership with the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology in Obu City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan. Together, they have created an online course in the Japanese language, aimed at fostering the development of multidisciplinary teams in dementia care for hospitals across Japan. This marks CCH’s first foray into dementia care training, with plans to expand its mission to provide courses on the subject in many countries, particularly in Asia.
About the College of Contemporary Health (CCH):
CCH is a leader in online education, providing top-tier learning resources across various disciplines. With a focus on making high-quality education accessible, CCH continues to break new ground in online learning, fostering academic excellence and innovation worldwide.
Contact:
Nicholas Feenie
Business Development Manager
College of Contemporary Health Ltd.
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Virtual care integration elevates patient access and efficiency in Canada clinic
Dr. Richard Tytus, a seasoned medical professional from Hamilton, Ontario, has long championed the merits of virtual healthcare. Being at the helm of a family health team, which comprises around 30 healthcare experts and related professionals, he’s been an early adopter of telemedicine, even before it became a mainstream approach during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Discovering the Potential of Telemedicine
Driven by a commitment to cater to patients who faced physical or psychological challenges that hindered their access to healthcare, Dr. Tytus ventured into telemedicine. He recognised that certain patients were hesitant to step out of their homes due to psychological constraints, effectively limiting their medical outreach. While telephone consultations had been integrated into his practice, the introduction of video conferencing reshaped patient interactions, especially for those requiring exposure therapy.
Embracing a Comprehensive Virtual Healthcare Solution
Initially, Dr. Tytus dabbled in standard video conferencing tools to facilitate patient consultations. However, as the scope of virtual care broadened, he ventured deeper into the realm of specialised telehealth platforms. His vision was an interconnected digital space that mirrored a physical clinic: where patients could move seamlessly from reception to consultation, and even specialist evaluation if required.
Challenges he faced in the early stages of implementing telemedicine provided him with invaluable insights. For Dr. Tytus, it wasn’t merely about leveraging technology but ensuring that the essence of personal patient care wasn’t lost in the digital transition.
Choosing the Right Platform
In the vast sea of telemedicine vendors, Dr. Tytus discovered a standout platform, Banty. What distinguished Banty was not just its fortified security but also its endorsement from government entities. This validation, coupled with its successful security tests and compliance with the ISO 27001 certification, cemented its reputation for robust data protection.
Banty’s platform went beyond simple video consultations. It facilitated intra-team communication with great ease, ensured smooth transfers of patients along with their medical notes, and was adaptable to various electronic health record systems, making it highly versatile.
Measurable Improvements
Dr. Tytus emphasised that one of the most significant outcomes of integrating telemedicine has been removing accessibility barriers for patients. With the hybrid model, which merges in-person and virtual consultations, they’ve achieved not only enhanced patient access but also a boost in operational efficiency.
This operational revamp has led to a tangible surge in patient consultations. Each physician in Dr. Tytus’s team now sees an additional 6-8 patients daily. This shift has also reshaped patients’ perceptions of healthcare, offering a blended approach that caters to individual patient needs.
The technology’s intuitive design has also been a boon for healthcare professionals, allowing them to focus on patient care without grappling with tech-related challenges.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Telemedicine Adopters
For those considering a shift to telemedicine, Dr. Tytus emphasises the importance of patient usability. The system should be straightforward, minimising technical barriers. Furthermore, it should integrate seamlessly into the daily operations of healthcare professionals without a complex learning process. And, importantly, a rigid approach won’t work. The solution must be adaptable, reflecting the unique workflows of different clinics.
In conclusion, Dr. Tytus believes that the essence of telemedicine is not just technology, but the harmonious melding of technology with personalised patient care. The focus should always remain on simplifying and enhancing the healthcare experience for both patients and providers.
Read MoreDigital health breakthrough with automated insulin delivery in hospital trials
Recent research indicates that the combination of automated insulin delivery and continuous glucose monitoring could be an effective method for regulating blood sugar levels in hospitalised adults suffering from diabetes.
A collaborative study from Emory University, Stanford University, and the University of Virginia recently published in Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics, involved the utilisation of the Omnipod 5 insulin delivery system in conjunction with the Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Over a period of 10 days, 18 hospitalised adult patients with diabetes were observed. On average, during their hospital stay, the participants’ glucose levels remained within the desired range 68% of the time. Notably, these participants utilised the automated insulin delivery system for about 95% of the trial duration.
Dr. Francisco Pasquel, from Emory University School of Medicine, highlighted the study’s implications. He stated, “The combination of an automated insulin delivery system with features suitable for hospital settings, together with real-time remote continuous glucose monitoring, offers a promising approach to optimise glucose management in hospitals. This could substantially reduce the risk of hypoglycemia.”
For this study, participants were adults, 18 years or older, with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. They were already on insulin therapy upon being admitted to the hospital. Trained medical staff and the research team utilised the automated system and the CGM to regulate each participant’s glucose levels for up to 10 days or until their discharge. The trial also included comparing the CGM’s accuracy with conventional blood glucose tests. Various data points, including medication consumption, blood components, CGM data, and insulin delivery specifics, were meticulously gathered.
By the study’s conclusion on August 8, 2022, 18 adults had participated fully. Out of these, 16 had over 48 hours of active CGM data, which was used for further glycemic analysis. The average blood sugar level recorded was 167 mg/dL. Interestingly, the daily average insulin delivery was 0.21 U/kg, while the total daily insulin dosage averaged at 0.41 U/kg. Participants also suspended insulin for approximately 20% of the time, and there were no occurrences of severe hypoglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis.
A survey filled out by 16 participants at the end of the study revealed their experiences. All respondents were in favour of using the automated system for managing their glucose levels during their hospital stay. An impressive 94% even expressed a desire to use the system at home. However, 38% found the necessity of using finger sticks for verifying CGM data cumbersome, with 19% showing a preference for solely relying on the CGM.
The research team acknowledged certain limitations to their study, such as the limited participant number and the study’s design. They pointed out that the hands-on approach by the study’s investigators and nurses might not be easily replicated in typical hospital settings. The team advocated for more comprehensive research with randomised controlled trials to validate these preliminary findings and to better understand the broader applicability and effectiveness of automated insulin systems in varied settings.
Read MoreDigital tool for specialist weight management services shows promising results
In a groundbreaking investigation led by the team at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust (UHCW), the potential and efficacy of digital platforms tailored for advanced weight management have been highlighted.
The research revolved around assessing the eagerness, acceptance, and active participation of patients on standby for their first-ever specialist weight management consultation. In the United Kingdom, specialised weight management services, often referred to as tier 3 services, offer a holistic approach to tackling obesity. These specialised services are generally anchored in hospitals or clinic facilities and bring together a diverse group of healthcare specialists. This includes dietitians, psychologists, specialist nurses, and doctors, all proficient in the realm of weight management.
For the purposes of this research, an NHS-approved digital platform named Gro Health was integrated into the service offering. This avant-garde health application propels numerous healthcare routes, with its tier 3 weight management feature, “W8Buddy”, acting as an online weight loss clinic. This feature delivers structured learning sessions, both individual and group coaching, an expansive list of over 2,000 recipes and meal schedules, and tools for health and nutrition tracking to chart progress.
The study drew in 199 prospective patients eagerly waiting for their appointment at the NHS Trust’s tier 3 weight management service.
Preliminary results indicate that over half of these individuals expressed genuine interest in the application. An impressive one-third went on to actively engage with the digital platform, highlighting the immense potential of such digital interventions in the specialised weight management scenario.
The engagement analysis unearthed intriguing data points. Those prone to emotional eating or those with an escalated BMI exhibited an increased propensity towards the Gro Health application. Meanwhile, aspects like age, ethnic background, and metabolic indicators like glycemia and lipid readings did not notably sway the interest.
These findings could serve as a blueprint for revolutionising weight management strategy. As digital healthcare tools evolve and gain traction, they stand poised as formidable and expansive strategies to confront the global issue of obesity.
Charlotte Summers, a behavioural change expert and the Founding Chief Operations Officer, expressed her enthusiasm, noting, “The pronounced interest demonstrated by patients in the Gro Health W8Buddy tool for weight management is truly heartening.”
She drew attention to the evident link between emotional eating, a raised BMI, and heightened engagement, highlighting, “This relationship underscores the transformative capacity of precise digital strategies in addressing weight-related concerns.”
Summers further elaborated on the journey ahead, “As we venture into providing tier 3 and 4 weight management services, we’re thrilled about tailoring these platforms with firsthand insights from both patients and healthcare providers. Such a collaborative effort not only champions a patient-driven model but also deepens our grasp on their preferences and anticipations. This, in turn, empowers us to offer top-tier, accurate care, be it through enhancing conventional healthcare avenues or pioneering virtual healthcare experiences.”
The study’s authors stress the need for continued exploration into understanding the challenges and motivators behind adopting digital tools and emphasise the importance of rigorously assessing their impact within specialised weight management services.
The rise of digital health platforms is sculpting the future of healthcare. This specific investigation underscores the transformative power of such tools, all while highlighting the necessity to unravel the complexities of patient engagement. As we witness the proliferation and capabilities of digital health platforms, the persistent quest to maximise their utility for patients and the broader healthcare spectrum is paramount.
Stay tuned for more revelations as ongoing studies continue to sculpt this rapidly evolving domain of weight management.
Read MoreWHO Europe stresses the need for strengthened digital health literacy across the region
In a significant report released by WHO Europe, there’s an emphasised call for an immediate boost in investments towards digital health literacy across the region.
The report, titled “Digital Health in the European Region: The Ongoing Commitment to Transformation,” sheds light on a concerning statistic: only half of the countries spanning Europe and Central Asia have rolled out policies tailored to bolster digital health literacy. This oversight leaves a considerable portion of the population in the shadows, devoid of the benefits of evolving digital healthcare platforms.
The landscape of healthcare has experienced a monumental shift in the WHO European Region over recent times, as is evident from the burgeoning adoption rate of digital health solutions. This transformation has redefined the dynamics of patient care.
Released during the Second WHO Symposium on the Future of Health Systems in a Digital Era held for the European Region, the report encompasses insights from all 53 member nations. Many countries within this bracket witnessed a spontaneous surge in the creation and deployment of digital health tools and policies due to the pressing demands of the COVID-19 pandemic – a time dominated by lockdowns and social distancing mandates. This led to the broader acceptance of telemedicine services and the advent of user-centric health applications. However, the report firmly stresses that the journey is far from complete.
A pressing concern is the evident disparity in the adoption and assimilation of digital health solutions across the region. This “digital health divide” implies that a staggering number of individuals are yet to harness the potential benefits of digital health advancements.
Diving deeper, the report draws attention to several pivotal areas:
- Of the countries surveyed, 44 have an established national digital health strategy.
- A unanimous consensus is seen with all 53 member nations having legislation that focuses on protecting individual data privacy.
- However, there’s a considerable disparity in the preparedness and execution, with only 19 countries offering guidance on evaluating the efficacy and safety of digital health initiatives.
- Slightly above 50% of these countries have put forth policies advocating digital health literacy and have set into motion a digital inclusion agenda.
- The pandemic saw 30 countries devising legislation to champion the cause of telehealth.
- An area that requires immediate attention is the oversight of mobile health (mHealth) applications. Many nations lack a dedicated body to ensure the quality, safety, and reliability of these apps. A mere 15% have reported systematic evaluations of state-backed mHealth initiatives.
- Just above half of the countries have strategised the application of Big Data and avant-garde analytics within the healthcare domain.
Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, the WHO Regional Director for Europe, opined on the matter, “In numerous nations, the growth trajectory of digital health platforms has been somewhat sporadic. This approach warrants an overhaul. It’s imperative to perceive digital health as a long-term, strategic investment, rather than a fleeting addition or a privilege enjoyed by a select few. It is a clarion call for our political and health leaders to strategically invest in the digital health infrastructure of tomorrow, today.”
Read MoreNHS gets £30m boost for tech advancements to improve patient care
In a recent announcement, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) revealed its plans to allocate £30 million for state-of-the-art technology aimed at enhancing services provided by the NHS. This funding is anticipated to play a pivotal role in reducing patient wait times, expediting the diagnostic process, and introducing novel patient treatment methodologies.
The DHSC, on its website, highlighted that such financial backing is expected to alleviate some of the operational burdens the NHS might face during the upcoming winter season. Notably, the funds could potentially be utilised to expand 3D diagnostics, thus expediting cancer screenings, and to implement innovative logistic solutions such as drone deliveries.
Moreover, another significant avenue the investment could support is the augmentation of virtual wards. This would allow more patients to receive essential care within the comfort of their homes, ensuring hospital beds remain available for those in acute need. To date, the NHS has successfully established over 9,800 virtual ward beds, with plans to achieve the 10,000 bed milestone before winter strikes.
Regions throughout England can access this funding. Integrated care systems (ICSs) have been tasked with submitting proposals to both the DHSC and NHSE detailing how they would best leverage the technology. The application process is set to commence shortly.
Health and Social Care Secretary, Steve Barclay, emphasised the government’s commitment to ensuring the medical fraternity is equipped with cutting-edge technology, stating, “From virtual ward beds to wearable medical devices, this new funding is a testament to our dedication to enhancing patient care, preparing for winter, and relieving hospital pressures.”
In addition to supporting the use of wearable devices that monitor vital signs and aid in the management of chronic ailments, ICSs might channel investments into advanced digital imaging, a move that would undoubtedly bolster diagnostic capabilities, especially in the realms of cancer detection and other severe illnesses.
Dr Vin Diwakar, NHS’s interim national director of transformation, applauded the NHS’s innovative prowess, stating that such tech advancements have already positively impacted over 210,000 patients through virtual ward setups. Ellie Kearney, a spokesperson from the Health Tech Alliance, welcomed the financial boost but also expressed some members’ discontent with certain previous funding strategies.
In further developments, the DHSC referenced the Medical Technology Strategy they unveiled earlier in the year, which laid down a roadmap for enabling patient access to secure, efficient, and pioneering tech via the NHS. This latest £30 million injection builds upon a prior £21 million allocation towards AI diagnostic tools.
This strategic funding alignment is in sync with the government’s overarching vision for fortifying the NHS, especially with the challenges that winter typically brings. In addition to this tech fund, the government, in September, infused £200 million into the NHS, aiming to fortify its resilience. The Urgent and Emergency Care Recovery Plan, rolled out at the beginning of the year, pledges to furnish 5,000 more hospital beds, 10,000 virtual ward beds, and 800 brand-new ambulances, supported by an impressive £1 billion fund.
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