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TORONTO, April 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a bold move to position Canada as the ultimate destination for the brightest minds in medical research, whose work will help build our future economy, University Health Network (UHN) is unveiling the ambitious Canada Leads 100 Challenge to recruit 100 world-leading early-career scientists to Canada's No. 1 hospital. As part of the strategy, UHN will focus on the recruitment of scientists whose research has the potential to fuel economic development, Canadian-based manufacturing and high-quality jobs. To ignite this transformational opportunity, UHN, with the support of UHN Foundation, has already secured an initial investment of $15 million to recruit the first 50 scientists. As part of the challenge, UHN Foundation and The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation will now work to secure the matching investment to reach the goal of 100 new recruits. "Attracting and retaining the best scientists and entrepreneurs is critical to the future economic growth of Ontario and Canada," said Mr. Dean Connor, Chair of the UHN Board of Trustees. "Canada Leads is designed to accelerate the rapid development of a powerful science-based economy that will translate into world-leading discoveries, protect Canada's universal health system and create exponential economic spin-off in manufacturing, biotech and commercialization." Along with a two-year research funding commitment, Canada Leads awardees at UHN will also benefit from coaching and mentorship by leading entrepreneurs. UHN will also be introducing a Global Mobility Expert to their team to help support the seamless transition of the new scientists to Canada. "I'm thrilled to see UHN launch the Canada Leads 100 Challenge that will attract the best and brightest scientists to Ontario from around the world," said Ontario Premier Doug Ford, who was on hand for the announcement. "Initiatives like these complement Ontario's significant investments in health care and our life sciences sector to drive Ontario's cutting-edge medical research that improves the lives of all Ontarians, creates high-quality jobs and strengthens our economy. Congratulations to UHN on this remarkable endeavour – it's a win for our province and a brighter future for everyone." Dr. Kevin Smith, President & CEO of UHN, said the circumstances are right for this initiative. "The time is now. The opportunity is now," Dr. Smith said. "Canadian-born discoveries can be commercialized here at home and that means our patients benefit first. It also offers the promise of a made-in-Canada supply chain of advanced medical products and services for use at home and globally." Sylvia Jones, Ontario's Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, and Nolan Quinn, Ontario's Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence & Security, were also on hand for the announcement. "Our government is taking bold action, while making record investments in our health care system, to champion Ontario as a world leader in health care innovation, research, and delivery," Minister Jones said. "Today's announcement by UHN works hand-in-hand with the progress our government has achieved, through our Life Science Strategy and by breaking down barriers for health care professionals, to deliver more connected and convenient care, for generations to come." Minister Quinn added: "Ontario is a world-renowned destination for performing groundbreaking health care research that drives our economy and improves millions of lives. Our government is proud to foster a strong, secure, and prosperous research environment that will only be strengthened by the brilliant minds UHN's Canada Leads 100 Challenge brings to our province." Dr. Brad Wouters, UHN's Executive Vice President of Science & Research, said: "We know that there are many efforts happening across Canada that reflect a collective ambition for Canada to become a global leader in medical research, discovery and commercialization. Our aspiration is to see this replicated across Canada to ultimately recruit 1,000 early-career scientists. In the spirit of Canada Leads, we're acting now and seizing this moment of opportunity. We call on all sectors to help us realize this ambition and welcome others to join us." Realizing a true transformation to a science-powered economy requires federal, provincial and municipal governments to make unprecedented investments and policy changes that position Canada as the destination for top talent. UHN looks forward to working with the next Government of Canada following the current election campaign. "Canada Leads represents a bold and urgent call to action — an investment in talent, discovery and a healthier, more prosperous future," said Ms. Julie Quenneville, CEO of UHN Foundation. "At UHN Foundation, we are proud to help ignite this vision by supporting the world's most promising scientists to Canada's No. 1 hospital, ensuring that breakthrough ideas take root and flourish right here at home. We thank the founding donors for their leadership to create a $30-million fund. " For more information, visit: UHNCanadaLeads.ca About University Health Network (UHN) UHN is Canada's No. 1 hospital and the world's No. 1 publicly funded hospital. With 10 sites and more than 44,000 TeamUHN members. UHN consists of Toronto General Hospital, Toronto Western Hospital, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, The Michener Institute of Education and West Park Healthcare Centre. As Canada's top research hospital, the scope of biomedical research and complexity of cases at UHN have made it a national and international source for discovery, education, and patient care. UHN has the largest hospital-based research program in Canada, with major research in neurosciences, cardiology, transplantation, oncology, surgical innovation, infectious diseases, genomic medicine and rehabilitation medicine. UHN is a research hospital affiliated with the University of Toronto. www.uhn.ca Media Contact: Ana Fernandes, Manager, External Communications, University Health Network, M: 437-216-4597, ana.fernandes@uhn.ca
FREMONT, Calif., March 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Alamar Biosciences, a company powering precision proteomics to enable the earliest detection of disease, is pleased to announce the signing of five new distribution partners to expand its global presence. The company has partnered with established industry leaders across key international markets to enhance access to its innovative proteomics technologies. The newly signed distribution partners include: GeneWorks – Australia and New Zealand Genomax – Singapore PhileKorea – South Korea Scrum Inc. – Japan Spinco – India "We are excited to welcome these outstanding partners to the Alamar network," said Yuling Luo, Ph.D., Founder, Chairman and CEO of Alamar Biosciences, "Their deep expertise in the life sciences industry and strong regional presence will allow us to bring our next-generation proteomics solutions to more researchers and clinicians worldwide." Alamar's technology empowers scientists to achieve groundbreaking insights in biomarker discovery, drug development, and disease research. Through these new partnerships, researchers in Asia-Pacific will now have enhanced access to Alamar's cutting-edge platforms and technical support. Alamar remains committed to supporting the scientific community with best-in-class tools that enable high-sensitivity protein analysis. For more information on Alamar's distribution network and solutions, visit alamarbio.com. About Alamar Biosciences, Inc. Alamar Biosciences is a privately held life sciences company with a mission to power precision proteomics to enable the earliest detection of disease. The company's proprietary NULISA™ Platform along with the ARGO™ HT System work seamlessly with the latest advances in genomics to achieve single digit attomolar detection sensitivity, greatly surpassing the most sensitive protein detection technology on the market today. For more information, please visit alamarbio.com.
TOKYO, March 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Global Health Innovative Technology (GHIT) Fund announced today a total investment of approximately JPY 1.7 billion (USD 11.4 million1) in five projects for the development of schistosomiasis diagnostics and drugs for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). 2 Investment total of approximately JPY 780 million (USD 5.2 million1) for the development of diagnostics for schistosomiasisSchistosomiasis is one of 21 NTDs that affects approximately 250 million people worldwide, with 90% of cases occurring in Africa. People become infected through contact with contaminated freshwater, allowing the parasite to penetrate their skin.. Among the five species of schistosomiasis causing the disease, two are widely distributed on the African continent: Schistosoma haematobium, which infects the urogenitary tract, and Schistosoma mansoni, which infects the intestines and liver. Current diagnostics face challenges such as low sensitivity and quality issues, making it difficult to accurately assess the infection status. To address this issue, the GHIT Fund had decided to invest approximately JPY 780 million (USD 5.2 million1) in two projects to develop new diagnostics for schistosomiasis led by Drugs & Diagnostics for Tropical Diseases, a nonprofit organization based in San Diego, California, USA, in collaboration with Medical & Biological Laboratories Co., Ltd., a Japanese manufacturer of clinical diagnostic kits and reagents, Nagasaki University Institute of Tropical Medicine, the Kenya Medical Research Institute, and the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research. The project will advance the development of a rapid diagnostic test (RDT) for Schistosoma mansoni, leveraging previous research findings and evaluating the diagnostic performance of the candidate RDT in endemic regions of Africa. In addition, the project team will develop a new serological RDT for Schistosoma haematobium. These tests are expected to be used as a low-cost, easy-to-use point-of-care (POC) diagnostic to support decision-making for Interruption of Transmission/Stopping Mass Drug Administration (MDA) and for subsequent surveillance of the disease. In addition, the GHIT Fund will invest in the following three R&D projects for a total amount of approximately JPY 932 million (USD 6.2 million1):1) Phase I clinical trial project for dengue vaccine by VLP Therapeutics, Inc. and Nagasaki University.2) Screening project against chikungunya by Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) and Eisai Co., Ltd.3) Screening project against Chagas disease by Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) and Shionogi & Co., Ltd. Please refer to Appendix 1 for detailed descriptions of these projects and their development stages. As of March 18, 2025, the GHIT Fund has invested in 35 projects, including 14 discovery projects, 12 preclinical projects and nine clinical trials.4 The total amount of investments since 2013 is JPY 37.5 billion (USD 251 million1) (Appendix 2). 1 USD1 = JPY149.63, the approximate exchange rate on February 28, 2025.2 These awarded projects were selected and approved as new investments from among proposals to RFP2023-002 and RFP2024-001 for the Product Development Platform and the Screening Platform, which were open for applications from June 2023 to July 2024.3 WHO: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/schistosomiasis 4 This number includes projects in the registration phase. The GHIT Fund is a Japan-based international public-private partnership (PPP) fund that was formed between the Government of Japan, multiple pharmaceutical companies, the Gates Foundation, Wellcome, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The GHIT Fund invests in and manages an R&D portfolio of development partnerships aimed at addressing neglected diseases, such as malaria, tuberculosis, and neglected tropical diseases, which afflict the world's vulnerable and underserved populations. In collaboration with global partners, the GHIT Fund mobilizes Japanese industry, academia, and research institutes to create new drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics for malaria, tuberculosis, and neglected tropical diseases.https://www.ghitfund.org/en Appendix 1. Project Details ID: G2024-202 Project Title In Support of WHO Schistosomiasis Control and Elimination Programs: Progressing a TPP-compliant serological test for Schistosoma mansoni to Field Testing and Manufacturing Process Development. Collaboration Partners 1. Drugs & Diagnostics for Tropical Diseases (DDTD) (USA) 2. MBL, Medical & Biological Laboratories Co., Ltd. (Japan) 3. Nagasaki University (Japan) 4. Kenya Medical Research Institute (Kenya) 5. Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (Ghana) 6. Big Eye Diagnostics, Inc. (USA) Disease Schistosomiasis Intervention Diagnostics Stage Product Development Awarded Amount JPY 472,729,041 (USD 3.2 million) Status Continued project Summary [Project objective] The overarching objective of this project is to deliver a fully TPP-compliant, easy-to-use, low-cost point-of-care test able to detect IgG1-type antibodies raised by the human host against selected S. mansoni antigens as an indicator for current or prior infection. The RDT delivered at the end of G2024-202 will have the required sensitivity and specificity to support Schistosomiasis monitoring, evaluation, and surveillance efforts in hypo-endemic areas post-MDA where stool-based or antigen-based diagnostics struggle to accurately determine disease prevalence. [Project design]The project team will pursue the following 6 specific objectives: -Objective 1: This first activity is aimed at defining the optimal use case(s) for our new serological test: Since serological testing is a new approach for schistosomiasis control and elimination programs, this work will be modelled in as much as appropriate on other NTDs that have already incorporated serological testing in their programmatic concepts (onchocerciasis, lymphatic filariasis, trachoma). -Objective 2: In the predecessor project, G2023-110, MBL produced the S. mansoni antigens and positive control antibodies in R&D grade quality. The production will now be moved to larger scale and ISO/QMS grade quality. -Objective 3: Given that the two prototype tests delivered at the end of G2023-110 (one for each S. mansoni antigen) already meet the TPP criteria, only limited further optimization work will be required, which may include generating and evaluating a biplex test as an alternative to the two singleplex tests. -Objective 4: Evaluate the laboratory diagnostic performance of the candidate RDT using extended patient sample panels and compare the results with egg count, PCR, CCA and/or CAA data as available, and determine the concordance with laboratory-based serological assays (ELISA/MBA). -Objective 5: Follow the clinical study plan established in Objective 1 to evaluate the diagnostic and operational performance of the candidate RDT in both endemic and non-endemic regions of Kenya and, potentially, Ghana. -Objective 6: A ISO13485-compliant automated large-scale manufacturing process will be developed by DDTD, modeled on those we have previously put in place for other tests. BEDx will then conduct an independent validation of the manufacturing process by producing 3 pilot lots of 10'000 units each, and quantifying the inter-lot consistency. Project Detail https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/portfoliodetail/detail/235/en ID: G2024-203 Project Title In Support of WHO Schistosomiasis Control and Elimination Programs: Development of a Sensitive and Specific Serological Rapid Diagnostic Test to Detect Infection by Schistosoma haematobium. Collaboration Partners 1. Drugs & Diagnostics for Tropical Diseases (DDTD) (USA) 2. MBL, Medical & Biological Laboratories Co., Ltd. (Japan) 3. Nagasaki University (Japan) 4. Kenya Medical Research Institute (Kenya) Disease Schistosomiasis Intervention Diagnostics Stage Technical Feasibility Awarded Amount JPY 314,446,720 (USD 2.1 million) Status New Summary [Project objective] The overarching objective of this project is to deliver a fully TPP-compliant, easy-to-use, low-cost point-of-care test able to detect antibodies raised by the human host against selected S. haematobium antigens as an indicator for current or prior infection. The RDT delivered at the end of G2024-203 will have the required sensitivity and specificity to support Schistosomiasis monitoring, evaluation, and surveillance efforts in hypo-endemic areas post-MDA where other diagnostic methods struggle to accurately determine disease prevalence. [Project design]The project team will pursue the following 4 specific objectives: -Objective 1: Define the most appropriate use case(s) for a serological S. haematobium test and present the proposed rationale and justification to the Schisto DTAG for endorsement. -Objective 2: Express the 5-10 most promising S. haematobium biomarkers from the literature and from previous work at CDC and NEKKEN, and evaluate their performance in an S. haematobium ELISA. -Objective 3: Generate RDT prototypes for each of the biomarker candidates down-selected in the preceding Objective, and evaluate the performance of the resulting singleplex LFAs in comparison with ELISA based on LOD, sensitivity, and specificity (non-specific binding). -Objective 4: Evaluate the diagnostic performance of the prototype RDT(s) delivered in the preceding Objective using extended patient sample panels, and compare the results with those from laboratory-based serological tests (ELISA/MBA) as well as with other, non-serological diagnostic methods (microscopy, PCR, CAA-test) wherever available. Project Detail https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/portfoliodetail/detail/236/en ID: G2023-201 Project Title Phase I clinical trial of novel dengue virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines Collaboration Partners 1. VLP Therapeutics, Inc. (USA) 2. Nagasaki University (Japan) Disease Dengue Intervention Vaccine Stage Clinical Phase I Awarded Amount JPY 885,198,600 (USD 5.9 million) Status Continued project Summary [Project objective] This Phase I clinical trial aims to evaluate the safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy of the tetravalent DENVLP vaccine. We will assess antibody titers, neutralizing antibody levels, and antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) following vaccination. Additionally, we will evaluate the efficacy of infection protection using a challenge strain of the dengue virus. Objective 1: Manufacturing the DENVLP Vaccine | We will produce a high-quality, GMP-grade of the tetravalent DENVLP vaccine using our stable cell lines for dengue virus types 1-4. We will assess quality and stability. Objective 2: Phase I Clinical Study | We will conduct a placebo-controlled Phase I trial with four groups of healthy adults (ages 18-60) to test different vaccine doses. Participants will receive three doses. [Project design]Manufacturing and IND Submission: VLP Therapeutics (VLPT) will oversee the manufacturing and regulatory submission for the tetravalent DENVLP vaccine and design the clinical trial plan. Its group company, VLP Therapeutics Japan, will conduct GMP-compliant manufacturing of the tetravalent vaccine. After manufacturing, the vaccine will undergo quality testing before submitting an Investigational New Drug (IND) application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Phase I Clinical Trial: A Phase I clinical trial will be conducted to evaluate the safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy of the DENVLP vaccine. The vaccine's safety and immunogenicity will be assessed, and a six-month follow-up will be conducted after vaccination. At six months, all participants will be exposed to a dengue virus challenge strain to evaluate vaccine efficacy. Project Detail https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/portfoliodetail/detail/237/en ID: S2024-112 Project Title AI-based screening for the identification of novel compounds against Chikungunya virus Collaboration Partners 1. Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) (Switzerland) 2. Eisai Co. Ltd. (Eisai) (Japan) Disease Chikungunya Intervention Drug Stage Screening Awarded Amount JPY 23,894,400 (USD 159,689.90) Status New Summary [Project objective] The project aims to use advanced computer-assisted screening to find new compounds that can prove effective in combatting Chikungunya virus. Initially, using state-of-the-art machine learning models, a large library of Eisai compounds will be screened in silico. Thereafter, hits from the in silico screen will be tested in vitro using established assays. This collaboration brings together the power of artificial intelligence, antiviral screening, and drug development expertise from a pharmaceutical company, Product Development Partner (PDP), and academic investigators in a country where Chikungunya virus is endemic. [Project design]The primary screening process will use an innovative two-step approach to maximize the available space for testing potential activity against Chikungunya virus. Around 50 primary hits will be chosen for further activity confirmation studies. Eisai will provide additional compounds for conducting these assays. For selected compounds, dose response curves (EC50) will be generated in the CHIKV assay, and their cytotoxicity profile (CC50) will be evaluated using the MTS assay. 5-10 confirmed active compounds will be prioritized for further profiling. To further assess their potential for broad spectrum activity within a virus family, these confirmed active compounds will be profiled against other alphaviruses. To assess specificity for the alphavirus genus, these confirmed actives will also be tested against SARS-CoV2 and mosquito-borne flaviviruses. Project Detail https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/portfoliodetail/detail/238/en ID: S2024-121 Project Title Screening project between DNDi and Shionogi & Co., Ltd. Collaboration Partners 1. Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) (Switzerland) 2. Shionogi & Co., Ltd. (Japan) Disease Chagas disease Intervention Drug Stage Screening Awarded Amount JPY 23,200,938 (USD 155,055.38) Status New Summary [Project objective] The primary objective of this project is to identify novel T. cruzi active series from a unique proprietary compound collection made available by Shionogi & Co., Ltd. (Shionogi). [Project design]A chemically diverse library of approx. 42,000 compounds specifically designed for this project from Shionogi's chemical library will be screened against the intracellular amastigote stage of T. cruzi at Institute Pasteur Korea in a cell-based, high-throughput screening system. A sequential single concentration followed by full dose-response scheme will be applied. Hit series meeting GHIT/DNDi criteria for potential Chagas disease treatments will be prioritized for further development. Project Detail https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/portfoliodetail/detail/239/en *All amounts are listed at an exchange rate of USD1 = JPY149.63, the approximate exchange rate on February 28, 2025. Appendix 2. Investment Overview (as of March 18, 2025) Investments to date Total investments: 37.5 billion yen (USD 251 million1)Total invested projects: 136 (35 active projects and 101 completed projects) To learn more about the GHIT Fund's investments, please visit Investment Overview: https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/overview/enPortfolio: https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/portfolio/enAdvancing Portfolio: https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/advancingportfolio/enClinical Candidates: https://www.ghitfund.org/investment/clinicalcandidates/en For more information, contact:Katy Lenard at +1-202-494-2584 or klenard@burness.comMina Ohata at +81-36441-2032 or mina.ohata@ghitfund.org
TMB-365/TMB-380 Combination Demonstrates Viral Suspension Without the Need for Susceptibility Screening TaiMed Biologics will reshape HIV treatment management and seeks strategic collaborations with global pharmaceutical partners for the commercialization of its long-acting HIV maintenance therapy TAIPEI, March 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- TaiMed Biologics (4147 TWO), an innovation-driven biotech company, has Phase 2a clinical study evaluating TMB-365/TMB-380 long-acting dual bNAb regimen for HIV maintenance therapy. This regimen, which is the first of its kind, offers a viable alternative to daily oral cART for individuals living with HIV. Key findings from the trial include durable viral suppression, with 94% of participants maintaining RNA levels below 50 copies/mL throughout the treatment period, while only the remaining 6% of participants recorded viral load of 59 copies/mL at end of 24-week treatment. No pre-defined virologic failure, which were defined as two consecutive viral load measurements above 50 copies/mL. The treatment was well-tolerated, with no serious adverse events, no Grade 3 or Grade 4, or acute infusion reactions reported. Additionally, no participants experienced treatment-limiting immune responses to the combination therapy. One of the more remarkable findings of TMB-365/TMB-380 is that it does not require susceptibility screening as the combination's broad breadth of activity and high potency, participants were not pre-screened for susceptibility to either bNAb featured for lowering the barrier to treatment access and ensures a wider range of individuals living with HIV can benefit from the therapy. Additionally, the pharmacokinetic (PK) and immunological markers also support the potential for long-acting viral suppression and stable immune function. This Phase 2a clinical trial was not a double-blind placebo-controlled study, and therefore, no statistical p-values were reported. "We are honored that our study was accepted for late-breaking presentation at CROI, highlighting the high scientific merit and groundbreaking nature of our results among numerous research studies, TMB-365/TMB-380 is the first long-acting mAb combination to achieve a high rate of viral suppression without screening requirements with robust potency, broad coverage and low resistance risk The regimen aims to reduce the frequency of daily dosing, while maintaining treatment's efficacy," said Dr. Jimmy Chang, CEO of TaiMed Biologics. "The global HIV treatment market valued at approximately USD 30 billion annually, with long-acting treatments currently account for only 3% but are projected to increase to over 30-40% in the coming years. The outstanding Phase 2a results position TMB-365/TMB-380 as a frontrunner in this rapidly growing sector, offering clear advantages over existing long-acting treatment options," emphasized by Dr. Jimmy Chang. TaiMed Biologics is actively seeking strategic collaborations with global pharmaceutical partners to support the commercialization of TMB-365/TMB-380. TaiMed Biologics welcomes opportunities to explore potential collaborations with global pharmaceutical partners to advance the commercialization of TMB-365/TMB-380 For more information, please contact: Jonathan Ho, jho@taimedbio.com. About TaiMed Biologics Founded in 2007, TaiMed Biologics (4147.TWO) is a leading commercial-stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapies for HIV treatment. The company successfully launched ibalizumab (Trogarzo®), the world's first and only FDA-approved monoclonal antibody for HIV and continues to pioneer long-acting biologics and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). TaiMed Biologics also offers comprehensive contract development and manufacturing (CDMO) services and is publicly traded on the OTC Market since November 2015, currently part of the MSCI Small Cap Index.
New findings from a recent white paper highlight the economic and healthcare burden posed by Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) on at-risk older adults aged 60 years or over in select high-income APEC countries and regions, including Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore Singapore had 3,251 estimated RSV hospitalisations in 2023, with hospitalisation costs per person amounting to SGD 9,430 (USD 7,037), amongst the highest in the region as compared to Australia at SGD 7,757 (USD 5,789) and Japan at SGD 8,242 (USD 6,151); Hong Kong had a slightly higher cost at SGD 7,848 (USD 10,515) Older adults aged 60 years or over with comorbidities such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), immune decline, and respiratory conditions, as well as those living in long-term care facilities, face higher risk of RSV infection, and higher RSV-associated estimated hospitalisation costs due to extended hospital stays, intensive care and emergency visits SINGAPORE, March 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A newly released white paper, based on research conducted independently by IQVIA, a global healthcare consultancy, and commissioned by GSK, highlighted the economic and healthcare burden posed by Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) on older adults aged 60 years or over in high-income Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) countries and regions, including Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore. Substantial RSV-associated Hospitalisation Costs Put Pressure on Older Adults The white paper estimated that in 2023, RSV led to approximately 3,251 hospitalisations amongst older adults in Singapore and is linked to a higher per-person direct medical cost (compared to cost in Australia and Japan) to cover inpatient stays, increased hospitalisation length, ICU resources, and emergency visits.2 Amongst the APEC countries and regions in the survey, hospitalisation costs per older adult in Singapore amounted to SGD 9,430 (USD 7,037),* as compared to Australia at SGD 7,757 (USD 5,789)* and Japan at SGD 8,242 (USD 6,151).* Hong Kong had a slightly higher cost at SGD 7,848 (USD 10,515)* compared to Singapore's. RSV, a common and contagious virus that affects the lungs and respiratory airways, that can affect people of all ages, from infants to adults. Among adults, it disproportionately affects older adults with weakened immunity and pre-existing chronic conditions. As older adults aged 60 years or over experience a weaker immune system, they are more susceptible to severe RSV infections. Chronic conditions, such as heart diseases, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are factors that could exacerbate the impact of RSV, leading to health decline, re-hospitalisations, and loss of independence even after the acute episode has resolved.3-6 A four-year study conducted in Singapore reported that one in every 20 older adults aged 65 years or over has tested positive for RSV in influenza-negative specimens.7 A family member caregiver of an RSV patient (name withheld on the caregiver's request) interviewed by GSK, shared, "As a caregiver, watching a loved one struggle with RSV is incredibly challenging. The challenge goes beyond the illness itself — it is the sleepless nights, the constant worry, and the disruption to daily life. When my mother was hospitalised due to RSV, I realised how vulnerable we all are to this virus. The financial strain is just as overwhelming as the emotional toll. Hospital bills, medication costs, and the possibility of long-term care can quickly add up, leaving families financially drained on top of the stress of caring for a loved one. Speak to your doctor early when in doubt to avoid unnecessary hospital stays and the added financial burden." Burden of RSV Hospitalisation Amongst Older Adults with Chronic Conditions Highlight Need for Increased Awareness and Improved Diagnosis Earlier published studies have reported that the direct medical cost associated with RSV hospitalisation rose significantly for patients with more severe outcomes, which were more frequently observed in older adults, especially those with pre-existing chronic conditions.8-10 More than 85% of Singaporean adults aged 60 years or over have reported having been diagnosed with at least one chronic condition,11 and it has been estimated that nearly 25% of the Singapore population will be 65 years of age or older in 2030, compared to the current 14%.12 Dr Lee Tau Hong, Infectious Disease Specialist, Infectious Diseases Care Clinic in Singapore, shared with GSK, "RSV poses a significant burden on patients, families, and healthcare systems worldwide. It not only causes distress for patients but also places immense strain on resources during peak flu and RSV seasons. Addressing this burden through prevention, early detection, and education is critical to safeguarding public health and reducing the impact of RSV on our communities." The Way Forward IQVIA's white paper underscores the importance of preventive measures, such as RSV vaccination programmes, to mitigate the virus's impact on older adults and alleviate the strain on healthcare resources. Other preventive measures, beyond vaccination, include practicing good hygiene by covering coughs and sneezes and ensuring ample physical distance away from others when one is sick.13 Additionally, the white paper highlighted the value of increasing the frequency of testing to identify RSV cases in implementing effective healthcare strategies. Further, the white paper brought out the importance of accurate information as a first step towards preventing RSV infections and the role of healthcare professionals in engaging with the public. "Low awareness of RSV and preventive actions, coupled with the reported substantial costs of medical treatment and hospitalisation, presents a significant financial burden, especially amongst older adults. It is important to also understand that older adults who come out of hospitalisation due to severe RSV could experience significant changes in the quality of their lives, with some sharing that they were never the same person again. This highlights the urgent need to address the growing impact of RSV infections on healthcare systems and strengthen primary, acute, and long-term care in societies where ageing is an emerging challenge, such as Singapore, shared Dr. Stephanie Cinthu Stephen Ambrose, Country Medical Director, GSK Singapore. The IQVIA white paper concluded emphasising on the need for healthcare practitioners, public health bodies, and policymakers to come together to improve RSV patient outcomes in APEC countries, including Singapore, and prevent RSV infection in older adults. The full white paper, "Economic Burden of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Infection Among Older Adults in Select Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Countries," can be accessed via https://www.iqvia.com/locations/asia-pacific/library/white-papers/economic-burden-of-respiratory-syncytial-virus-infection-among-older-adults. *IQVIA white paper reported costs in USD currency; conversion to SGD utilised the prevailing rate at the time of writing - END- Representation of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV Virus) (owned by GSK) About RSV in older adults aged 60 years or over RSV is a common contagious virus affecting the lungs and breathing passages that can affect people of all ages, from infants to adults. For adults 60 and older, data suggest an increased risk for severe RSV infection that can lead to hospitalisation.15Older adults are at high risk for severe disease due in part to age-related decline in immunity, and older adults with underlying conditions are at even greater risk for severe disease15. RSV can exacerbate conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)16, asthma17, diabetes18 and congestive heart failure19 and can lead to severe outcomes, such as pneumonia, hospitalisation, and death15. About GSK GSK is a global biopharma company with a purpose to unite science, technology, and talent to get ahead of disease together. Find out more at https://www.gsk.com/en-gb/locations/singapore/ About the IQVIA White Paper The IQVIA white paper has been developed independently by the IQVIA RWE Medical and Scientific Writing: Epidemiology and Database Studies team. Funding for this work has been provided by GSK. Editorial assistance was provided by Shlok Kumar, Consultant, IQVIA, India. A Pragmatic Literature Review (PLR) was conducted to identify published evidence on Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) hospitalization incidence, number, and cost in adults, with a defined scope, inclusion criteria, and data identification and extraction methods. Once the criteria were defined, they were converted into strategies, which were then used to search relevant databases for identifying pertinent evidence. The selected articles were assessed according to the established inclusion and exclusion criteria. References 1. Costs are adjusted for inflation till 2023. The local Singapore currency was converted from United States dollars (USD) based on the exchange rate of 2023 on World Bank. Available from: https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/PA.NUS.FCRF?locations=SG. 2. Branche AR, Falsey AR. Respiratory Syncytial Virus infection in older adults: an under-recognized problem. Drugs Aging. 2015;32(4):261-9. 3. Mehta J, Walsh EE, Mahadevia PJ, Falsey AR. Risk factors for Respiratory Syncytial Virus illness among patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. COPD. 2013;10(3):293-9. 4. Falsey AR. Respiratory Syncytial Virus infection in elderly and high-risk adults. Exp Lung Res. 2005;31 Suppl 1:77. 5. Falsey AR, Walsh EE, House S, et al. Risk Factors and Medical Resource Utilization of Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human Metapneumovirus, and Influenza-Related Hospitalizations in Adults-A Global Study During the 2017-2019 Epidemic Seasons (Hospitalized Acute Respiratory Tract Infection [HARTI] Study). Open Forum Infect Dis. 2021;8(11):ofab491. 6. Branche AR, Falsey AR. Respiratory Syncytial Virus infection in older adults: an under-recognized problem. Drugs Aging. 2015;32(4):261-9. 7. Ang, Li Wei et al. "Characterisation of respiratory syncytial virus activity in children and adults presenting with acute respiratory illness at primary care clinics in Singapore, 2014-2018." Influenza and other respiratory viruses vol. 14,4 (2020): 412-419. doi:10.1111/irv.12730 8. Nguyen-Van-Tam JS, O'Leary M, Martin ET, et al. Burden of respiratory syncytial virus infection in older and high-risk adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of the evidence from developed countries. Eur Respir Rev. 2022;31(166):220105. 9. Stephens LM, Varga SM. Considerations for a Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccine Targeting an Elderly Population. Vaccines (Basel). 2021;9(6). 10. Walsh EE, Peterson DR, Falsey AR. Risk factors for severe respiratory syncytial virus infection in elderly persons. J Infect Dis. 2004;189(2):233-238. 11. Chan, A., Malhotra, R., Visaria, A., Sung, P., Siok Seng, B. J., Ching, & Tan, Y. W. (2020). Transitions in health, employment, social engagement and intergenerational Transfers in Singapore Study (THE SIGNS Study) – II: Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal analyses of Key aspects of Successful Ageing. Centre for Ageing Research and Education, Duke-NUS Medical School. https://www.duke-nus.edu.sg/docs/librariesprovider3/publications-docs/the-signs-study---ii-report-(revised).pdf?sfvrsn=b391ced0_0 12. Department of Statistics Singapore. https://www.singstat.gov.sg/find-data/search-by-theme/population/elderly-youth-and-gender-profile/latest-data. Retrieved from: Asian Development Bank. (2020). Singapore's Care System and Population Aging: Challenges and Options. https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/publication/637416/singapore-care-system-population-aging.pdf 13. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). How RSV spreads. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/causes/index.html
People who have had shingles are at a 59% higher risk for heart attack and at a 35% higher risk for stroke compared to those who have not had shingles. Adults aged 50 years or over are at high risk for shingles due to age-related decline in immunity and the risk further increases amongst those with underlying chronic health conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. If people with diabetes contract shingles, they are at least three times more likely to be hospitalised due to shingles compared to those without diabetes. SINGAPORE, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A study has reported that people who have had shingles, also known as herpes zoster, are at a significantly higher risk of heart attack (+59%) and stroke (+35%) compared to those who have not had shingles.[1] In another study, it has been reported that people with diabetes are at least three times more likely to be hospitalised due to shingles compared to those without diabetes.[2] Shingles is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus that causes chickenpox.[3] With age-related decline in immunity, people aged 50 years or over are at a higher risk for contracting shingles compared to those who are younger.[4],[5] The risk for shingles further increases amongst people with underlying chronic health conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes.[6] In Singapore, around nine out of ten adults aged 50 years or over have had chickenpox[7] and 85% of the country's older population live with at least one chronic health condition, while 45% have been diagnosed with three or more.[8] The five most reported chronic health conditions amongst older adults in Singapore were: high blood pressure or hypertension; high blood cholesterol or lipids; joint pain, arthritis, or nerve pain; high blood sugar or diabetes; and renal/kidney or urinary tract ailments. [9] Dr. Sue-Anne Ee Shiow Toh, Endocrinologist and Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at NOVI Health, shared with GSK that from a clinical perspective, the impact of shingles on people with chronic health conditions or comorbidities can be severe. 'Ageing patients with comorbidities are more susceptible to infections, and when shingles occurs, it can lead to prolonged healing times, increased nerve pain, and even heightened cardiovascular risks,' shared Dr. Toh. People with diabetes, for example, are at a 30% higher risk of getting shingles compared to those who do not have diabetes.[10] If they do contract shingles, they are at least three times more likely to be hospitalised due to shingles compared to those without diabetes.[11] Mr. Satyaprakash Tiwari, Executive Director, Diabetes Singapore, shared with GSK: 'Diabetes is a chronic condition that already presents many health challenges. The additional risk of shingles and its complications is something that many people with diabetes may not be aware of.' During this year's Shingles Awareness Week, GSK has partnered with Diabetes Singapore to raise awareness about the risks of shingles for people with diabetes and launched a campaign to share experiences of people who have had shingles. One such experience is that of Mr. Lionel L., a businessman from Singapore, who contracted the disease at the age of 56. Raakhi Sippy, General Manager of GSK Singapore, commented: 'Many people are unaware of the risks associated with shingles, such as increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and hospitalisation. Raising awareness, especially amongst Singaporeans aged 50 years or over, is a key step towards protecting them from shingles and related complications.' 'Given these risks, it is important that individuals over 50, particularly those with comorbidities, are informed about the available preventive measures against shingles,' Dr. Toh added. For more information on shingles and the Shingles Awareness Week campaign, visit https://www.stopshingles.com. Businessman Mr. Lionel L. of Singapore had shingles at the age of 56 (GSK). About Shingles Awareness Week Shingles Awareness Week (23 February – 1 March 2025) is an annual global awareness week dedicated to improving public knowledge about the risks and severity of shingles. In collaboration with the International Federation on Ageing (IFA), GSK has set up the Shingles Awareness Week to encourage informed conversations between adults, particularly those aged 50 years or over, and their healthcare professionals about shingles. About GSK Singapore GSK is a global biopharma company with the ambition and purpose to unite science, technology and talent to get ahead of disease together. With the aim to positively impact the health of 2.5 billion people at the end of the decade, GSK prioritises innovation in vaccines and specialty medicines, maximising the increasing opportunities to prevent and treat disease. At the heart of this is the company's R&D focus on the science of the immune system, human genetics and advanced technologies, and world-leading capabilities in vaccines and medicines development. Singapore is the hub for GSK's Global General Medicines (GM) and the Greater China and Intercontinental (GCI) and Emerging Markets (EM) regions. It houses three manufacturing sites (Jurong, Quality Road, Tuas), comprising two for medicines and one for vaccines. GSK's business in Singapore is spread across four sites – the three manufacturing sites and its corporate and commercial office (GSK Asia House). For more information on GSK please go to https://www.gsk.com/en-gb/ [1] Kim, M. C., Yun, S. C., Lee, H. B., Lee, P. H., Lee, S. W., Choi, S. H., Kim, Y. S., Woo, J. H., Kim, S. H., & Kwon, S. U. (2017). Herpes Zoster Increases the Risk of Stroke and Myocardial Infarction. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 70(2), 295–296. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2017.05.015 [2] Giorda, C. B., Picariello, R., Tartaglino, B., Nada, E., Romeo, F., Costa, G., & Gnavi, R. (2024). Hospitalisation for herpes zoster in people with and without diabetes: A 10-year-observational study. Diabetes research and clinical practice, 210, 111603. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.diabres.2024.111603 [3] Herpes zoster (shingles). HealthHub. (n.d.). https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/diseases-and-conditions/herpes_zoster [4] Shiraki, K., Toyama, N., Shiraki, A., Yajima, M., & Miyazaki Dermatologist Society (2018). Age-dependent trigeminal and female-specific lumbosacral increase in herpes zoster distribution in the elderly. Journal of dermatological science, 90(2), 166–171. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdermsci.2018.01.009. [5] Thomas SL, Hall AJ. What does epidemiology tell us about risk factors for herpes zoster? Lancet Infect Dis. 2004 Jan;4(1):26-33. doi: 10.1016/s1473-3099(03)00857-0. PMID: 14720565. [6] Steinmann M, Lampe D, Grosser J, Schmidt J, Hohoff ML, Fischer A, Greiner W. Risk factors for herpes zoster infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis unveiling common trends and heterogeneity patterns. Infection. 2024 Jun;52(3):1009-1026. doi: 10.1007/s15010-023-02156-y. Epub 2024 Jan 18. PMID: 38236326; PMCID: PMC11142967. [7] Fatha N, et al. Int J Infect Dis. 2014;22:73-77. [8] Chan, A., Malhotra, R., Visaria, A., Sung, P., Siok Seng, B. J., Ching, & Tan, Y. W. (2020). Transitions in health, employment, social engagement and intergenerational Transfers in Singapore Study (THE SIGNS Study) – II: Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal analyses of Key aspects of Successful Ageing. Centre for Ageing Research and Education, Duke-NUS Medical School. https://www.duke-nus.edu.sg/docs/librariesprovider3/publications-docs/the-signs-study---ii-report-(revised).pdf?sfvrsn=b391ced0_0. [9] Chan, A., Malhotra, R., Visaria, A., Sung, P., Siok Seng, B. J., Ching, & Tan, Y. W. (2020). Transitions in health, employment, social engagement and intergenerational Transfers in Singapore Study (THE SIGNS Study) – II: Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal analyses of Key aspects of Successful Ageing. Centre for Ageing Research and Education, Duke-NUS Medical School. https://www.duke-nus.edu.sg/docs/librariesprovider3/publications-docs/the-signs-study---ii-report-(revised).pdf?sfvrsn=b391ced0_0. [10] Papagianni, M., Metallidis, S., & Tziomalos, K. (2018). Herpes Zoster and Diabetes Mellitus: A Review. Diabetes therapy : research, treatment and education of diabetes and related disorders, 9(2), 545–550. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13300-018-0394-4 [11] Giorda, C. B., Picariello, R., Tartaglino, B., Nada, E., Romeo, F., Costa, G., & Gnavi, R. (2024). Hospitalisation for herpes zoster in people with and without diabetes: A 10-year-observational study. Diabetes research and clinical practice, 210, 111603. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.diabres.2024.111603
Infectious Disease Control
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