Latest Health News
Measles Cases Drop 75% in Europe and Central Asia in 2025
Preliminary data shows measles cases declined by 75% in 2025 compared to 2024 due to outbreak responses and reduced susceptibility, though cases exceed pre-2000 levels and persist into 2026. UN agencies stress higher vaccination coverage and combating misinformation to prevent deaths, as measles is 12 times more contagious than influenza.
WHO urges 95% vaccination to eliminate the virus.
New Mouse Model Reveals Skin's Role in Lupus Progression
Researchers developed a keratinocyte-driven mouse model mimicking human lupus, showing skin defects trigger systemic autoimmune responses with remission and relapse cycles. The model enables real-time study of disease progression and testing topical/systemic therapies.
It highlights skin as a potential initiator of lupus, opening avenues for stage-specific interventions.
Major Depressive Disorder Linked to Th2 Immune Pathway
A Mount Sinai study finds major depressive disorder shares immune abnormalities with inflammatory skin diseases, targeting the Th2 axis via IL-4 receptor alpha. Dupilumab, which inhibits Th2 signaling, reversed inflammatory proteins in MDD signatures.
A new clinical trial will test dupilumab for improving depressive symptoms by modulating immunity.
Japan Donates $6.3M for Polio Eradication in Afghanistan
Japan provided US$6.3 million to UNICEF for polio vaccines reaching over 12 million children under five across Afghanistan's 34 provinces. Polio cases fell from 25 in 2024 to 10 by December 2025, but risks persist amid earthquakes and returns of unvaccinated children.
Sustained immunization is crucial to end polio globally.
Canadian Doctors Warn Against AI for Medical Advice
The Canadian Medical Association cautions against relying on AI for health advice due to risks of delayed treatment or harmful self-treatment. A poll shows one in eight Canadians have sought a doctor for over a year or given up amid rising doctor shortages.
Experts urge verified sources over AI platforms.
No Evidence of Mysterious Brain Disease in New Brunswick
New Brunswick’s top doctor reports no evidence of a mysterious brain disease in the latest investigation. This update reassures public health concerns in the region.
Ongoing monitoring continues.
U.S. Breast Cancer Death Rate Declines 44% Since 1989
New Susan G. Komen data shows U.S. breast cancer deaths dropped 44% from 1989 peak to 2023, averting 546,000 deaths due to screening and treatments. Research discoveries drive continued progress.
The outlook highlights sustained reductions.
Ozempic-Like GLP-1 Drugs Show Major Weight Loss but Questions Linger
Cochrane reviews confirm blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic deliver significant weight loss results. However, big questions remain on long-term effects and broader implications.
Further research is needed.
SickKids Introduces Seven Scientists Advancing Child Health
The Hospital for Sick Children highlights seven scientists leading child health research, including neuroblastoma treatments and in-vivo studies. Their work spans critical pediatric areas.
Innovations promise future breakthroughs.
Sinai Health Scientists Pioneer Spatial Biology and Regeneration
New investigators at Sinai Health’s Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute focus on spatial biology, cellular stress, and dying cell interactions for regeneration. Research targets conditions like squamous cell carcinoma and alopecia.
Collaborative efforts accelerate therapy development.
WHO Consults on Next Global Digital Health Strategy 2028-2033
African Region hosts stakeholder webinar on shaping the next global digital health strategy for 2028-2033. Input will guide future digital health policies.
Event scheduled for February 12, 2026.