High-cost medicines: the difficult balance between individual and collective rights

Abstract

Medicines are special goods that cover the health needs of the population. In recent decades, the pharmaceutical industry has changed its research and development strategy, shifting its focus from the exploration of medicines for chronic diseases affecting a large part of the population to the search for drugs for rare diseases that affect a small number of people. This lack of a mass consumer base is reflected in a selective offer of a few very high-cost products aimed at certain diseases, which hinders both patient access and financial coverage.

Social participation in health: analysis of progress and challenges for the Region of the Americas

Abstract

This article analyzes the state of social participation in health in the Region of the Americas, framing it within the regional context and commitments assumed by the Member States of the Pan American Health Organization. It aims to provide regional input to the discussion of a resolution on social participation for universal health coverage, health, and well-being at the 77th World Health Assembly in 2024.

From national and regional commitments to global impact: artificial intelligence for equitable public health at the G20

[Extract] Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming numerous sectors and public health is no exception. As a powerful tool for modernizing health systems and services, AI promises to improve health outcomes, enhance efficiency and ensure innovation in public health practices. The G20, representing the world’s largest economies, plays a crucial role in shaping global health policies and driving forward initiatives that leverage AI for public health (1).

Investigating under-reported human papillomavirus genotypes in Grenadian women through self-sampling for cervical cancer screening

Objective

To compare the adequacy, agreement, and acceptability of Papanicolaou testing (cytology) for cervical cancer screening using self-collected samples compared to physician-collected samples in Grenada in the Caribbean. Furthermore, the study identifies the human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes present among asymptomatic women testing positive for HPV, the etiologic cause of cervical cancer.

Evaluation of Implementation of the HEARTS Initiative in a Rural Community in Venezuela, 2023

Objective

To evaluate the implementation of HEARTS strategies in a community in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. 

Methods

Quasi-experimental study evaluating the cascade of care, driving factors, and maturity and performance indicators four months after implementation of the HEARTS initiative in 52 patients with high blood pressure (BP) in the community of La Marroquina. The data were processed using SPSS® Statistics, version 25.0. Student's t-distribution and chi-square tests were applied to determine statistical significance. 

Introducing the concept of digitally smart health facilities: a vision for the future

[Extract] The adoption of the digitally smart health facilities (DSHFs) concept introduces a new paradigm in today’s public health environment, potentially opening possibilities for addressing many challenges. This editorial explores the concept, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize the health care landscape by integrating digital infrastructure, tools, services and digital literacy within the planning and construction or renovation of health facilities at all levels of care.

National and regional population attributable fractions for anemia risk factors (iron, folate, and vitamin B12) in Belize: potential impact of fortification

Objective 

To estimate the national and regional population attributable fraction (PAF) and potential number of preventable anemia cases for three nutritional risk factors (iron, red blood cell folate [RBCF], and vitamin B12 deficiencies) among women of childbearing age in Belize.
 

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