Health
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290 articles in this section
Infant Freezes to Death in Gaza Amid Severe Israeli Aid Restrictions
A nine-month-old Palestinian infant has died from hypothermia in a tent in southern Gaza due to the cold, amid ongoing Israeli restrictions on winter aid. The tragic death highlights the dire humanitarian situation as winter approaches and heavy rains exacerbate conditions for displaced families.
Gaza Doctor's Death in Hospital Strike Labeled 'Horrific Crime' Amidst Escalating Israeli Attacks on Healthcare
A Gaza doctor was killed in an Israeli strike on Nasser Hospital, an event described as a "horrific crime." The attack highlights the ongoing Israeli targeting of healthcare facilities and personnel in Gaza and the West Bank, leading to widespread destruction, casualties, and the detention of medical staff.
UAE's First Locally Sourced Corneal Transplant Restores Sight and Brightens Patient's World
A 74-year-old Jordanian man has successfully undergone the UAE's first corneal transplant using locally sourced tissue, significantly improving his vision and alleviating pain. This milestone procedure, performed by Bascom Palmer Eye Institute with tissue from Abu Dhabi Biobank, marks a step towards addressing the global shortage of donor corneas.
War's Toll: Gaza Residents Age Decades Overnight, Faces Reflecting Trauma and Hardship
Gaza residents are experiencing accelerated aging and significant changes in their appearance due to the prolonged war, marked by stress, hardship, and scarcity.
UAE Shifts Focus from Weight Scale to Holistic Health in Obesity Fight
The UAE is shifting its approach to obesity, moving beyond a sole focus on weight to address it as a chronic disease impacting cardiometabolic health. New treatments and a greater understanding of the condition are being prioritized, alongside lifestyle changes and comprehensive patient support.
Beyond the Body: Why Prioritizing Brain Health is Key to Aging Well
Discussions about healthy aging often neglect brain health, despite its critical role in cognitive function and independence. Experts emphasize the need to prioritize brain health alongside physical health to ensure quality of life as populations age, especially with rising dementia rates.
UAE Unveils National Genomics Masterplan to Revolutionize Healthcare with Personalized Medicine
The UAE has approved a national genomics masterplan for 2026-2031, aiming to provide personalized medicine and enhance healthcare through genetic data and AI. The plan expands the Emirati Genome Programme to all citizens and enhances newborn screening.
FDA Mandates New Warning for GLP-1 Drugs Amid Potential Blindness Risk
The FDA has ordered manufacturers of popular GLP-1 weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy to add a warning about a potential link to blindness caused by a rare eye condition called NAION. The agency cited research linking the drugs to the condition, though some manufacturers dispute the causal relationship.
New Covid Variant PJ.2.1 Spreads Globally, Underscoring Persistent Viral Threat
A new Covid-19 variant, PJ.2.1, is spreading globally, highlighting the virus's ongoing threat. While not causing more severe illness, it is becoming more prevalent and poses risks to vulnerable individuals.
Egypt Needs 10,000 Magdi Yacoubs and a Doubled Healthcare Budget, President Sisi Declares
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi stated that Egypt needs 10,000 doctors like Magdi Yacoub and a healthcare budget that is double or triple the current amount. He emphasized the importance of health and education sectors for national progress and announced plans for new faculties and universities.
UN Warns of Worsening Middle East Water Crisis as El Niño Intensifies
The UN warns that the Middle East faces an escalating water crisis as an intensifying El Niño phenomenon is predicted to bring more extreme weather in 2027, exacerbating existing water shortages despite recent heavy rainfall.
New Delhi Chokes Under Smog as Diwali Firecrackers Ignite Air Quality Crisis
New Delhi is experiencing a severe smog situation following Diwali celebrations, with air quality reaching dangerous levels due to firecracker emissions. This exacerbates the city's ongoing seasonal pollution crisis.
Sudan's Children Starving Amidst War and Climate Crisis: Parents Face Impossible Choices
Sudan is facing a severe malnutrition crisis among children, exacerbated by the ongoing civil war and the impacts of climate change. Parents are struggling to afford treatment and access adequate food, leading to a surge in hospital admissions and dire health outcomes.
US Measles Cases Surge to Highest Level in 35 Years Amidst Vaccination Decline and Data Disputes
The CDC reports over 5,000 measles cases in the US for 2026, the highest in 35 years, amid declining vaccination rates and a dispute over how measles-related deaths are classified.
UAE Launches Free Dental Screenings for Preschoolers to Foster Healthy Smiles
The UAE has introduced a new program offering free dental and oral health screenings for preschool children in public schools, aiming for early detection and prevention of dental issues. This initiative is a collaboration between the Ministry of Health and Prevention, the Ministry of Education, and Emirates Health Services.
Zayed Centre for Research: Seven Leading Experts Drive Breakthroughs in Rare Disease Treatment
The Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children (ZCR) is a hub of innovation, with seven leading experts driving advancements in gene therapy, regenerative medicine, and rare disease treatments. The centre, a partnership between Great Ormond Street Hospital and UCL, utilizes cutting-edge technology and collaborative research to develop new cures for critically ill children.
Energy Drinks Linked to Serious Heart Issues in Young Adults, Study Warns
A new study links high consumption of caffeinated energy drinks and workout supplements to serious cardiovascular events, including heart attacks, particularly in young adults aged 18-34. Doctors are urging more research into the effects of these stimulant-laden beverages.
WHO Greenlights Clinical Trials for Two New Ebola Vaccines Amidst DRC Outbreak
The World Health Organization (WHO) has approved clinical trials for two new Ebola vaccines designed to combat the Bundibugyo strain, which is causing the largest outbreak in the DRC's history. Results are expected in early 2027, while the WHO urges the lifting of travel restrictions that could impede response efforts.
Egypt's Health Ministry Debunks 'Mysterious Virus' Claims in Esna, Cites Seasonal Infections
Egypt's Ministry of Health and Population has clarified that reported illnesses in Esna are seasonal viral infections, not a 'mysterious virus.' Most cases are mild and resolve at home, with no need for hospitalization.
Abu Dhabi's Health Initiative Sees Over 6,500 Participants Achieve Significant Weight Loss
Abu Dhabi's government-backed health program has successfully helped over 6,500 individuals lose weight, with many achieving significant reductions using new medications. The initiative aims to combat obesity-related chronic diseases through personalized treatment plans and advanced therapies.
Ebola Outbreak Claims Over 5,300 Lives in DR Congo, Spreading Across Borders
The latest Ebola outbreak has claimed over 5,300 lives, primarily in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with the Bundibugyo strain showing a high fatality rate. The virus has spread to neighboring countries, including Uganda and Kenya, though efforts are underway with vaccine trials.
Abu Dhabi Restaurants Introduce Healthier Choice Labels on Menus
Abu Dhabi restaurants are now featuring a SEHHI food programme mark on their menus to identify healthier dish options, aiming to make healthier choices easier for diners. This initiative is part of a broader government effort to combat non-communicable diseases and promote healthier lifestyles.
Lebanon Scrambles to Address Food Poisoning Crisis: Emergency Meeting Called Amidst Outbreak
Lebanon's government will hold an emergency meeting to address a food poisoning outbreak that has hospitalized at least 17 people, primarily children. Investigations point to tainted pastries and meat from an unlicensed supplier, Rahamco, as potential sources.
Sudan on Brink of Famine: Displaced Families Face Worsening Aid Crisis and Hunger
Displaced Sudanese like Aisha Adam are facing a severe food crisis, with dwindling aid and warnings of impending famine. Many are forced to seek precarious work to survive, while millions across the country face acute hunger.