HEALTH (Personal and Planetary)
Personal Health
03/03/25 Women’s Health Initiatives in Australia: The Australian government has announced a $573.3 million investment to enhance women’s healthcare services. This includes adding contraceptive pills Yaz and Yasmin to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, potentially saving women up to $380 annually. The plan also encompasses larger Medicare payments, increased bulk billing options for IUDs and birth control implants, and the establishment of 11 new clinics focusing on endometriosis, pelvic pain, and menopause support.
03/03/25 Easing Licensing for Foreign-Trained Physicians in the U.S.: To address doctor shortages, several U.S. states are simplifying licensing processes for foreign-trained physicians. This initiative aims to bolster the healthcare workforce and improve patient access to medical services.
03/03/25 Safety of GLP-1 Medications for Mental Health: A recent study confirms that GLP-1 receptor agonists, commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes, do not increase the risk of suicide, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts. This finding provides reassurance regarding the mental health safety profile of these medications.
03/03/25 Long COVID Challenges
Long COVID continues to affect millions globally, with patients experiencing debilitating symptoms for extended periods. Despite the significant impact on quality of life, many sufferers feel overlooked, emphasizing the need for increased research, better treatments, and political support.
03/03/25 Emerging Fungal Infections
Climate change is contributing to the rise of fungal infections like Valley fever, originating from soil in arid regions. Changing weather patterns may facilitate the spread of such infections to new areas, highlighting the necessity for comprehensive research and public awareness.
03/03/25 Mental Health Crisis in Australia
Australia is witnessing a concerning trend in mental health, with only 19% of adults reporting no mental health issues in the past year. Financial pressures and societal stressors are significant contributors, underscoring the urgent need for increased investment and a holistic approach to mental health care.
03/03/25 Avian Influenza Outbreaks
A new strain of H5N1 avian influenza, known as D1.1, has been detected in cows, dairy workers, wild birds, and poultry, indicating a broader spread than previously observed. This development poses challenges for containment efforts and raises concerns about potential reassortment with other flu strains, emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring and public awareness.
Planetary Health
Our Planet, Our Health: 2025 Climate Action Convention: From March 1-4, 2025, leaders, experts, and educators are convening in Washington, D.C., for a significant event focused on planetary health and climate action. The convention addresses the intersection of environmental sustainability and public health, aiming to drive progress toward a healthier and more equitable world.
Environmental Humanities Conversation: On March 3, 2025, Johns Hopkins University is hosting “Futures in the Face of Ruin,” a discussion exploring the environmental humanities. This event seeks to reflect on how we perceive and interact with environments affected by human activity, fostering a deeper understanding of our role in planetary health.