医療・健康
たん検査、肺がん検診から除外
喫煙率低下で効果小さく
2025年10月10日 18:19（更新 18:21）
［有料会員限定記事］
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肺がん検診において、50歳以上のたばこを多く吸う人を対象に胸部エックス線検査と併用されている「たんの検査」について、厚生労働省の有識者検討会は10日、検査の効果が小さくなっているとして、2025年以降、肺がん検診から除外する方針を示しました。
これは近年の喫煙率の低下により、たん検査によって得られる効果や検診の有効性が減少しているためです。
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https://www.nishinippon.co.jp/item/1409954/
AstraZeneca Pharma announced on Tuesday that it has received approval from the national drug regulator to market a new cancer treatment drug in India.
The company has been granted approval by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) to import, market, and distribute Trastuzumab Deruxtecan for an additional indication in the country, according to an official statement.
With this approval, Trastuzumab Deruxtecan is now indicated for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable or metastatic HER2-positive solid tumours. These patients must have received prior systemic therapy and have no satisfactory alternative treatment options.
This approval marks the first and only antibody-drug conjugate in India with a tumour-agnostic indication, representing a significant advancement in precision oncology, AstraZeneca said.
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https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/astrazeneca-gets-nod-to-market-cancer-drug-in-india-23597685
Cooper Medical School students work on the Cooper Sprouts Community Garden in 2024. This project is an example of student community service focused on nutrition. (Courtesy of Cooper Medical School of Rowan University)
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**Federal Push Urges Medical Schools to Teach Nutrition**
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently mandated that medical schools incorporate nutrition education into their curricula. Moreover, organizations responsible for medical education standards were given two weeks to develop plans to include nutrition training in licensing exams and residency requirements.
Two local medical schools say they are already prepared, having integrated nutrition education for years.
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**Longstanding Nutrition Curricula at Local Medical Schools**
At Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, the nutrition curriculum dates back to the late 1990s. Michael White, professor emeritus of pharmacology and physiology at Drexel, explained that medical students receive around 20 hours of class time covering topics such as vitamins, food labels, and assessing patients’ energy and nutrition needs during hospital stays.
“Given how much nutrition we already cover, we don’t have much to worry about with that declaration from HHS and the Department of Education,” White said. He emphasized that the faculty at Drexel has long considered nutrition an essential part of health education, which is why their program includes it extensively.
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**Cooper Medical School’s Comprehensive Approach**
Cooper Medical School of Rowan University in New Jersey teaches nutrition across various courses and also engages students in nutrition-focused research and community service projects.
Sangita Phadtare, assistant dean and professor of biomedical sciences, shared examples of student involvement in the community, such as participating in a local community garden to grow fresh vegetables. Students have also collaborated with local groups to educate Spanish-speaking residents on interpreting food labels and building healthy meals from affordable ingredients like dried beans and frozen vegetables — especially for those without access to cars.
“As a school, we try to do our part because we believe that Camden is our home. It’s not just our workplace,” Phadtare said. “Even though I would say that we fare well, there is always scope for doing more.”
She added, “We, as a medical education community, think that nutrition is important. Even without being told, we should be doing that.”
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**The Federal Initiative for Enhanced Nutrition Education**
At the end of August, HHS and the Department of Education launched this initiative, urging leading medical education organizations nationwide to implement comprehensive nutrition education immediately.
In an editorial, U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. compared the needed swift adaptation to nutrition training to the rapid pivot to telehealth services at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
Kennedy cited research showing that most U.S. medical schools did not require nutrition training, and many doctors felt uncomfortable discussing nutrition with patients.
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**Expert Reactions and Current Status**
Paul Wischmeyer, professor of anesthesiology and surgery at Duke University, described the current state of nutrition education in medical schools as a crisis. Although he noted a shortage of nutrition experts in the U.S. to meet the new demands, he expressed excitement about the increased recognition of nutrition’s fundamental role in health care.
“The recognition finally that nutrition is fundamental to all of our lives and to health care in particular is really an exciting opportunity, one that I’ve perhaps waited my whole career to see,” Wischmeyer said.
Recent data from August, however, show that all U.S. medical schools already teach nutrition in some form, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the organization representing medical schools.
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**Nutrition’s Role in Osteopathic Medicine**
Nutrition’s importance is also recognized in osteopathic medical education. Robert Cain, president of the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, stated that although nutrition education is not new in osteopathic programs, the current focus offers a chance to enhance ongoing efforts.
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**Next Steps and Commitment**
A press secretary for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services confirmed that universities have begun committing to the changes, and all organizations responsible for medical education standards in the U.S. have responded to the initiative.
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https://www.phillytrib.com/news/health/rfk-jr-is-demanding-medical-schools-teach-nutrition-drexel-and-rowan-programs-say-they-re/article_3e6e3185-5468-47d8-a9c2-f4d552fdff27.html
Each year, approximately 13,000 people are diagnosed with a primary brain tumour in the UK. Among them are around 900 children and young people. Brain tumours are currently the biggest cancer killers of children and adults under 40, according to the Brain Tumour Charity.
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has recently issued a major update following widespread concerns about the current state of brain cancer treatment in the UK. This message responds to an ongoing petition, which has been signed by over 20,000 people, calling for increased funding and improved treatment efforts.
The parliamentary campaign behind the petition pressed the Government to examine increased funding to “give patients a fighting chance.” Campaigners argued that treatments for brain tumours “haven’t changed in decades” and advocated for expanded exploratory research initiatives.
In response, the DHSC acknowledged that “more needs to be done” and confirmed that a National Cancer Plan is due to be published later this year. The department’s statement, published on October 3, reads:
> “Every brain cancer diagnosis has a life-changing impact on patients and their families. Research is vital to ensure people can access the most effective, cutting-edge treatments and receive the highest quality care.
> We currently invest £8 million in research projects and programmes focused on brain tumours. The National Institute for Health Research’s (NIHR) wider investments in research infrastructure amount to an estimated £37.5 million, supporting the delivery of 261 brain tumour research studies and enabling over 11,400 people to participate in potentially life-changing brain tumour research.
> However, we understand that more needs to be done to boost research into brain tumours.”
The DHSC also stated that it is working closely with patient and research communities to stimulate high-quality research applications. This includes the establishment of a national Brain Tumour Research Consortium and a dedicated funding call.
However, the department stressed that there are currently “no plans” to introduce a ‘Right to Try’ initiative for new treatments. For context, the Right to Try Act in the United States permits eligible patients with life-threatening conditions to access unapproved investigational treatments under certain conditions.
Regarding new and personalised treatments, the DHSC reaffirmed the government’s commitment to securing patient access to effective and innovative new medicines, including those for brain tumours. It noted:
> “There are established routes to support timely access for NHS patients to safe, clinically and cost-effective new medicines. There are no plans to introduce a new Right to Try initiative for treatments.
> The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) evaluates all new medicines and makes recommendations for the NHS on whether they should be routinely funded. NICE aims to issue guidance on new medicines as close as possible to the point of licensing.
> Our Life Sciences Sector Plan, published in July, sets out measures to streamline decision-making and accelerate patient access to new medicines by three to six months.
> The NHS in England is required to fund medicines recommended by NICE, and NHS England funds cancer medicines from the point of positive draft NICE guidance, accelerating patient access by around five months on average.”
Looking ahead, the DHSC highlighted the upcoming National Cancer Plan, due to be published later this year. The plan will focus on patients and cover the entire cancer pathway—from referral and diagnosis to treatment and aftercare. The goal is to improve all aspects of cancer care and outcomes, aiming to reduce the number of lives lost to cancer over the next ten years, including from brain cancer.
The petition, titled *“Invest in brain cancer and give rights turn terminal into treatable,”* currently has over 20,000 signatures. If it surpasses 100,000, it will be considered for a debate in Parliament.
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/government-shares-major-cancer-research-36021923
Dyne Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: DYN) stands out as one of the best stocks to buy under $20.
On September 29, Dyne Therapeutics announced a significant milestone: Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has granted Orphan Drug designation for its investigational therapeutic, DYNE-251.
This designation targets individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) who have mutations in the DMD gene that are amenable to treatment with DYNE-251.
The Orphan Drug status is a crucial step in the development of DYNE-251, potentially providing benefits such as market exclusivity and regulatory assistance, which can accelerate the availability of this promising therapy for patients in need.
Investors and stakeholders will be closely watching Dyne Therapeutics as it advances its pipeline and seeks to address unmet medical needs in the muscular dystrophy community.
https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/dyne-investigational-dmd-drug-dyne-205457972.html
**Mouthwash and Oral Hygiene: Myth vs. Facts**
*By Simran Jeet | Oct 03, 2025, 05:49 PM*
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**What’s the Story?**
Mouthwash is often marketed as a quick fix for oral hygiene, but it cannot replace the essential act of brushing your teeth. While mouthwash can help freshen breath and reduce some bacteria, it does not remove plaque or food particles like a toothbrush does. Understanding the limitations of mouthwash is crucial for maintaining optimal dental health.
Here are some insights into why brushing should remain the cornerstone of your oral care routine.
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### 1. Plaque Removal Is Essential
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can lead to cavities and gum disease if not removed regularly. A toothbrush physically removes plaque by scrubbing it away from the tooth surface.
Mouthwash alone cannot eliminate plaque effectively, as it only rinses the mouth without the mechanical action needed to dislodge the bacteria-laden film.
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### 2. Fluoride Benefits in Toothpaste
Toothpaste usually contains fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent decay. While some mouthwashes also have fluoride, they don’t have the same concentration as toothpaste.
Using mouthwash instead of brushing means you miss out on fluoride’s protective benefits, leaving your teeth vulnerable to cavities over time.
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### 3. Brushing Reaches All Areas
A toothbrush can reach all areas of your mouth, including hard-to-reach spots between teeth and along the gum line where bacteria tend to hide. Mouthwash can’t reach these areas as effectively as brushing does.
Regular brushing ensures that every part of your mouth gets cleaned properly, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and gum issues.
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### 4. Cost-Effective Oral Care Routine
Investing in a good toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste is far more cost-effective than relying solely on mouthwash for oral care.
While mouthwash can be a helpful addition to your routine, it shouldn’t be the only product you depend on for dental health. A simple routine of brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste is much more effective than any rinse alone.
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### 5. Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups
While at-home care is important, regular dental check-ups are critical to keep your oral health in check. A dentist can identify problems early and provide professional cleanings that aren’t possible at home.
Combining regular visits with a proper brushing routine guarantees that your teeth stay healthy and strong.
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**In summary**, mouthwash can complement your oral hygiene but never replace brushing. To maintain optimal dental health, focus on thorough brushing with fluoride toothpaste and regular dental visits.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/mouthwash-is-not-a-substitute-for-brushing-teeth/story
Pakistan is currently struggling against a public health challenge of a dual nature: the persistence of communicable diseases alongside the rapid rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This double burden of disease strains Pakistan’s already crippling healthcare infrastructure and jeopardizes the well-being of its citizens.
Amidst this complex situation, a new threat has emerged and is spreading at an alarming rate: tobacco-free nicotine pouches. Marketed with deceptive appeal, these products pose a significant and often underestimated risk to an individual’s health.
### What Are Nicotine Pouches?
Nicotine pouches are small sachets placed between the gum and lip, widely advertised as a modern and discreet way to consume nicotine. Unlike traditional tobacco products, these pouches contain nicotine powder extracted from tobacco leaves or synthetically manufactured. Their appeal is enhanced by a wide variety of flavors and the absence of smoke or spit, which are often associated with other tobacco products.
Marketed as tobacco-free or tobacco leaf-free, nicotine pouches have seen a significant recent surge in popularity. This has led to a common misconception that they are harmless.
### The Health Risks of Nicotine
Nicotine is a highly addictive substance with numerous detrimental health effects. Unregulated marketing and the rapid increase in use raise serious public health concerns about its long-term impact.
Nicotine is a potent psychoactive compound that can profoundly affect the human body. Its use leads to addiction—a chronic, relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. This addiction, particularly when it begins in youth, can disrupt brain development. Normally, the brain continues to develop until a person’s mid-twenties. Early exposure can impair cognitive functions, including attention and learning, and may increase the likelihood of addiction to other substances later in life.
### Cardiovascular and Oral Health Concerns
Clinical trials have well-documented the extensive health risks associated with nicotine. Nicotine use has been linked to several cardiovascular issues: it can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, placing added strain on the heart. Long-term use can contribute to the hardening of artery walls, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. These conditions already represent a major part of the NCD burden in Pakistan, and the proliferation of nicotine pouches threatens to exacerbate this crisis.
Local effects of nicotine pouches on oral health are also a serious concern. Placing the pouch directly against the gums can lead to irritation and inflammation. Prolonged and repeated use can cause gum recession, where the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing roots and increasing the risk of dental caries and tooth loss. While the long-term impact on oral cancer is still under study, the potential for chronic irritation and inflammation of oral tissues remains a significant health risk.
### The Regulatory Vacuum and Its Consequences
The market for nicotine pouches in Pakistan is largely unregulated. Their tobacco-free status allows them to bypass many of the regulations and taxes that apply to traditional tobacco products. This regulatory vacuum has created room for aggressive marketing campaigns, especially on social media, targeting young adults and adolescents.
The appealing flavors and discreet nature of these products make them particularly attractive to this demographic, creating a new generation of nicotine users and perpetuating the cycle of addiction.
One recent study highlighted the alarming trend of high nicotine pouch use among young adults in Pakistan, many of whom are unaware of the associated health risks. The lack of robust regulation, combined with deceptive marketing, directly contributes to Pakistan’s double burden of disease.
### The Path Forward: Legislative and Regulatory Action
As NCDs, including cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers, continue to rise, the introduction of easily accessible and addictive nicotine products threatens to worsen this prognosis. This places an immense burden on Pakistan’s healthcare system and economy, draining resources desperately needed for other public health initiatives.
In a positive development, the National Assembly passed the NIH bill on August 12. The bill emphasizes the dire need for establishing a national cancer registry to understand the actual burden of disease and to implement a national action plan for cancer prevention and management.
Through this bill, the structure and governance of the National Institute of Health will be strengthened, ensuring the reorganization of the institution and enhancing its performance. The approval marks a significant step toward reforms in the health sector and institutional improvement.
### Urgent Call to Action
To safeguard public health, particularly among the younger population, it is imperative that the government and regulatory authorities take immediate and decisive action:
– **Include nicotine pouches in the taxation stream** to limit widespread use.
– **Bring the sale and distribution of these products under strict regulatory control.**
– **Consider a comprehensive ban on the sale of nicotine pouches** as the most effective and direct way to address this emerging public health threat.
By eliminating this silent scourge, Pakistan can protect future generations and make tangible strides toward reducing the double burden of disease that plagues the nation. The time for action is now.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345109-the-double-burden-of-disease
