Latest News

Private equity firm Altaris plans to take Sharecare private in $518M acquisition deal
Digital health company Sharecare has agreed to be acquired by private equity firm Altaris for $1.43 in cash per share, or about $518 million. The merger consideration of $1.43 per share represents a premium of approximately 85% over the closing price of Sharecare on June 20, 2024. Altaris plans to take Sharecare private once the deal is finalized. Altaris is an investment firm exclusively focused on the healthcare industry. The company was founded in 2010 by Jeff Arnold, founder of WebMD, and Dr. Mehmet Oz. Sharecare provides a comprehensive and data-driven virtual health platform designed to help people manage all their health in one place. The company works with providers, employers, health plans and government organizations to optimize individual and population-wide health and

The Connected Health Revolution: Capgemini Report Highlights Industry Shifts
According to a recent report by Capgemini, the pharmaceutical and biotech industries anticipate that over a fifth of their revenue will stem from connected health solutions within the next five years. The report, titled "The Connected Health Revolution," underscores a significant transformation, with a sixfold increase
Articles

UW Health Utilizes AI to Enhance Nursing Efficiency
Amid ongoing staffing challenges within the healthcare industry, UW Health is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the efficiency of nurses in responding to patient messages. More than 75 nurses at UW Health are currently piloting a generative AI tool that drafts responses to patient messages in MyChart, Epic Systems’ electronic health record system. This initiative is part of a collaborative project launched by Epic and Microsoft in the spring of 2023. Amanda Weber, an RN clinical supervisor at UW Health, described the process nurses follow: they begin by reading the patient’s message and reviewing their chart, then evaluate the AI-generated response. “It kind of sets up that first draft, and then I can go in and make any type of edits,” said Weber, who works in

NMC Healthcare Engages Rothschild as Financial Adviser for Strategic Options
United Arab Emirates hospital group NMC Healthcare (NMCH) has engaged Rothschild as a financial adviser to explore strategic options, including a potential initial public offering (IPO). This announcement was made on Wednesday, with the company indicating that it would appoint a second financial adviser "in due

US Biotech Startup Seed Health Contemplates Sale Valued at Over $1 Billion
Founded in 2015, Seed Health has experienced impressive growth, positioning itself as a key player in the biotech and nutritional supplement markets. The company, based in Venice, California, is renowned for its flagship DS-01 capsules, which address gut and overall health, and its recently launched VS-01 vaginal
Specialities

Revolutionizing Radiology: The Impact of AI Integration in Healthcare
In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has made significant inroads into various sectors, with healthcare being one of the most promising fields for its application. One of the most notable advancements in this domain is the integration of AI in radiology, where innovative solutions are transforming diagnostic processes, enhancing accuracy, and improving patient care. Rad AI: Pioneering Generative AI for Radiology Rad AI, a leader in generative AI for healthcare, exemplifies the potential of AI in radiology. The company recently raised $50 million in Series B financing, bringing its total capital raised to over $80 million. This funding round, led by Khosla Ventures and supported by prominent investors including WiL (World Innovation Lab), ARTIS Ventures, OCV Partners, Kickstart
Medical Equipment

Aston University Collaborates with PFE Medical to Enhance Endoscope Cleaning and Patient Safety
In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at revolutionizing endoscope cleaning procedures, Aston University has embarked on a collaborative venture with PFE Medical, a leading medical products company based in Stoke-on-Trent. The partnership, facilitated through a Knowledge Transfer Project (KTP), seeks to address the persistent challenge of bacterial biofilm accumulation within endoscopes, thus enhancing patient safety and healthcare outcomes. Endoscopes, indispensable instruments equipped with a light and camera for internal body examination, have long posed a cleaning conundrum despite advancements in medical technology. The formation of bacterial biofilms within these devices, resistant to conventional cleaning methods, has raised concerns regarding patient infections and treatment

Optical Fiber Endoscopes: Breakthroughs in Miniaturization and Imaging Quality
In the realm of medical diagnostics, the evolution of endoscopic imaging techniques has been pivotal in enabling minimally invasive procedures while ensuring high-quality visualization of internal structures. A recent publication in Opto-Electronic Science (DOI: 10.29026/oes.2024.230041) delves into the advancements in
Product Focus

Breakthrough Robotic Bronchial Endoscopic System Reduces Medical Staffing Needs in Airway Emergencies
In a collaborative effort between the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM) and Chungnam National University Hospital, a pioneering robotic bronchial endoscopic system has been developed, promising to revolutionize emergency interventions for airway blockages in individuals ranging from infants to the elderly. Led by Principal Researcher Ki-Young Kim of KIMM and overseen by Professor Jae-Won Chang of Chungnam National University Hospital, the research team achieved a significant breakthrough with the creation of an advanced robotic bronchial endoscopic system. This innovative technology aims to swiftly address airway obstructions caused by foreign substances or food, minimizing side effects and streamlining intervention procedures. The key features of this cutting-edge system
Pharmaceuticals

UC San Diego Researchers Develop AI Algorithm Accelerating Drug Discovery
Scientists at the University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego) have unveiled a groundbreaking machine learning algorithm designed to revolutionize early-stage drug discovery processes. The innovative technology, detailed in a study published in Nature Communications, holds promise for expediting drug development and introducing novel treatments for various ailments, particularly cancer. Traditionally, identifying potential drugs for further refinement involves extensive experimentation, often spanning thousands of tests. However, the newly developed artificial intelligence (AI) platform, named POLYGON, has the potential to deliver comparable results in a fraction of the time. Led by senior author Trey Ideker, a professor in the Department of Medicine at UC San Diego School of

ISPE Survey Highlights Regulatory Challenges Hindering Pharmaceutical Innovation
The International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE) has released a comprehensive report shedding light on the impediments faced by the pharmaceutical industry in its pursuit of innovation. Titled “Enabling Global Pharmaceutical Innovation: Delivering for Patients,” the report encapsulates insights gleaned
Campaigns & Recent Studies

Breakthrough study uncovers TIP60’s role in DNA access and disease mechanisms
To transcribe the information contained in our genes or to repair the dozens of breaks that occur daily in our DNA, our enzymes must be able to directly access the DNA to perform their functions. However, in the cell nucleus, this access is limited because the DNA strands are often tightly coiled and packed around proteins like threads around spools. Researchers from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab), UC Berkeley, the Institute for Systems Biology, and Université Laval now have a better understanding of the protein complex that creates access to packed DNA, TIP60. Knowing the detailed structure and behavior of TIP60 could provide insight into different diseases where the protein complex plays a role, such as Alzheimer's and various cancers. The work was reported in the

Medical Ethics and Health Policy
Medical ethics is a pivotal field that provides guidance for the conduct of medical professionals and ensures the integrity of medical practice, protecting the interests of all patients. Misconduct and ethical violations can result in significant disciplinary actions, including the suspension or revocation of a medical

Recap and outlook of the global healthcare tech industry
Driving factors propel market growth Medical demands keep growing driven by worldwide ageing populations, higher prevalence of chronic diseases, and rising expectations for healthcare. Global healthcare systems are under strain with staff shortages and financial sustainability while facing rising demands and
Diet & Nutrition

The Health Benefits and Risks of Soursop: An In-Depth Look at Annona muricata Lin.
Soursop, scientifically known as Annona muricata Lin., is a tropical fruit from the custard apple (Annonaceae) family. Known for its distinctive sweet and sour flavor and creamy texture, soursop is also commonly referred to as graviola, guanabana, or Brazilian paw-paw. This fruit, covered in spiny skin, is not only a popular food source but also a significant component of traditional medicine used to treat various conditions such as arthritis, nervous disorders, and diarrhea. This article provides a comprehensive overview of soursop, its nutritional profile, potential health benefits, and associated risks. Nutritional Profile of Soursop Soursop is a nutrient-dense fruit that provides a variety of health-supportive components. A one-cup serving of raw soursop contains: Calories: 148

Does coconut oil offer promise of glaucoma cure?
In a health landscape saturated with conventional wisdom, former glaucoma sufferer Joe Lovett has emerged as a harbinger of change, boldly claiming that he successfully cured his debilitating eye condition with the humble yet versatile coconut oil. This revelation challenges established medical norms surrounding

Discover the incredible ways cinnamon boosts your health
There are different types of cinnamon All cinnamon is not created equal. There are distinct types, with Cassia containing a compound called coumarin that can be risky in large amounts. On the other hand, Ceylon cinnamon, often called “true” cinnamon, has lower coumarin levels, making it a safer choice. While Cassia is
Healthcare Technology

3D Printing in Healthcare: Customization and Innovation
3D printing technology has revolutionized healthcare by enabling the creation of custom-made medical devices, prosthetics, and even tissues and organs. This innovative approach allows for precise customization tailored to individual patient needs, enhancing treatment outcomes and improving quality of life. One of the significant benefits of 3D printing in healthcare is its ability to create personalized prosthetics and implants. Traditional prosthetics often require extensive manual adjustments to fit the patient properly. With 3D printing, prosthetic digital scans of the patient's anatomy, ensuring a perfect fit and functionality. This customization not only improves comfort but also enhances the prosthetic's performance, allowing users to engage in daily activities with greater ease and

Introducing BioTechGuard: Advancing Biosecurity for Public Health
BioTechGuard represents a cutting-edge innovation in biosecurity technology, developed to safeguard public health against emerging infectious diseases and biological threats. Designed by biotechnologists, epidemiologists, and security experts, BioTechGuard integrates advanced detection systems and rapid response

How technology is facilitating transformation of the healthcare industry
According to the latest report by management consultancy firm Arthur D. Little, new technologies are set to accelerate data-driven healthcare transformation in the Middle East in the coming decade. The report highlights that digital transformation in healthcare is the key to enhancing quality, boosting access, and
Country Reports

Iranian Medical Device Exports Surpass $50 Million Annually, Iran Health Expo 2024 to Showcase Sector Advancements
Iran has emerged as a significant player in the global medical device industry, with exports totaling approximately $50 million annually and reaching 40 countries worldwide. This revelation comes from Ahmad Moslemi, who emphasized the substantial growth witnessed in the sector over the past five years. Moslemi highlighted a fivefold increase in the number of manufacturing companies, now totaling around 2,000 entities. Correspondingly, the variety of medical products has expanded fourfold, including advanced medical devices and implants. Furthermore, Iran's medical infrastructure has seen notable enhancements, with the addition of 15,000 hospital beds, 90 percent of which are equipped with locally manufactured equipment. In an effort to showcase the nation's advancements in medical

Qatar's Healthcare System Garners Global Recognition
In recent years, the State of Qatar has emerged as a beacon of exemplary healthcare, propelled by a multi-faceted approach to well-being under the wise vision of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and in alignment with Qatar’s National Vision 2030. This concerted effort has transformed Qatar into a global leader
Events

Arab Health anticipates 3,000 companies from 70 countries for its next edition in January
The 2023 edition of Arab Health will return to the Dubai World Trade Centre from 30th January – 2nd February under the show's theme, 'Innovation and Sustainability in Healthcare', the organizers said. Exhibitor companies are also anticipated to rise, increasing from 2,828 to over 3,000 from 70 countries, according to Informa Markets. Arab Health has underscored its position as the epicenter of healthcare trade and reaffirmed its support for global businesses and governments by securing AED2.8 billion worth of healthcare industry-related contracts, according to a GRS Explore Exhibitor Survey during the 2022 edition, which was held in Dubai in January. The exhibition plays an integral role in supporting UAE Government initiatives such as ‘Make it in the Emirates’, a platform for developing