Introduction:Life expectancy in China rises to 77.93 years; Mechanism of vitamin D inhibiting ovarian cancer metastasis; Beijing: Vaccination required for entry into crowded places… BioExploration keeps you updated on “pharma” news and explores the value of biotechnology with you!
01The world's first long-acting COVID-19 preventive drug gains initial access in mainland China.
On July 5, Boao Airport Customs affiliated to Haikou Customs recently completed the approval for the special item entry of Evusheld (Ensuid), the first import of neutralizing antibodies in mainland China, with a total value of 21.9802 million yuan. This drug is mainly used for pre-exposure prophylaxis of COVID-19 in adults and adolescents (≥12 years old, weight ≥40kg). The approval of Evusheld in Hainan marks the first pilot access in mainland China for the only drug currently available globally for the prevention of coronavirus infection.
02NHC: China's average life expectancy increases to 77.93 years
On July 5, the National Health Commission held a press conference to introduce the progress and achievements of the Healthy China Action since its implementation. Currently, life expectancy in China has increased to 77.93 years, with key health indicators ranking among the forefront of middle- and high-income countries. The 2020 phase objectives of the Outline of the "Healthy China 2030" Plan have been largely achieved on schedule, while the main 2022 goals of the Healthy China Action were realized ahead of time. Significant interim successes have been achieved in the implementation of the Healthy China Action: ① A basic system for health promotion policies has been established; ② Health risk factors have been effectively controlled; ③ The capacity for full-life-cycle health maintenance has significantly improved; ④ Major diseases have been effectively contained; ⑤ Public participation is growing stronger.
03Nagoya University Discovers Mechanism by Which Vitamin D Inhibits Ovarian Cancer Metastasis
Recently, a research team from Nagoya University found that vitamin D can promote the normalization of THBS1 expression, inhibit mesothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and reverse the mesenchymal state of tumor-associated mesothelial cells, thereby suppressing peritoneal metastasis of ovarian cancer. Vitamin D not only plays a key role in maintaining calcium homeostasis and regulating bone metabolism but also inhibits cell cycle progression, proliferation, and angiogenesis. Additionally, overexpression of the vitamin D receptor has been confirmed to be associated with a favorable prognosis in various cancers. Therefore, the research team speculates that vitamin D may exert anti-tumor effects, thus treating peritoneal metastasis.
04Medtronic Partners with Novartis to Provide Heart Disease Solutions for Patients
Recently, Novartis launched the project plan of Novartis Biome UK Heart Health Catalyst 2022, establishing the world's first investor partnership with Medtronic and charitable organizations. Novartis aims to address cardiovascular diseases and related mortality by investing in developers of digital, home-based methods for preventing heart attacks and strokes. Novartis is collaborating with Medtronic, asset management companies, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, and its official charitable foundation. It is reported that the initiative focuses on advancing cerebrovascular disease care by identifying and scaling innovations in home blood pressure management and non-invasive lipid testing. The program aims to identify and implement solutions enabling patients to improve their heart health and prevent future heart attacks or strokes through home-based digital solutions.
05Beijing: Starting from July 11, people entering crowded places must be vaccinated.
On the afternoon of July 6, Beijing held the 379th COVID-19 prevention and control press conference, announcing significant adjustments to its pandemic policies. To maximize the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccinations in combating the pandemic and to consolidate the achievements in controlling the outbreak, thereby ensuring public health and safety—especially for high-risk groups such as people aged 60 and above and those engaged in public service—Beijing plans to implement a series of epidemic prevention measures. These include: First, elderly individuals attending senior universities, senior activity centers (rooms), and fitness or recreational venues should get vaccinated as soon as possible. Second, individuals entering crowded venues such as offline training institutions, libraries, museums, cinemas, art galleries, cultural centers, sports stadiums, gyms, entertainment venues, performance venues, and internet cafes must be vaccinated (except for those who are medically ineligible). Priority access to venues with restricted capacity or reservation systems will be given to vaccinated individuals. The aforementioned measures will officially take effect on July 11, 2022.
Compiled by | Qiaowei Jun
Typesetting|Mu Zijiu
