Remarkable strides in global health
AS we stand on the cusp of 2025, it's natural to look ahead with anticipation. However, let's take a moment to reflect on the remarkable strides made in many fields, including global health during 2024.
The past year has been a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance in the face of medical challenges.
One of the most significant achievements was the approval of a new malaria vaccine, a breakthrough that promises to save countless lives in regions where the disease is endemic. Alongside this, we saw tremendous progress in the fight against cervical cancer, with a promising drug reaching advanced stages of development.
2024 also marked a historic milestone in the field of transplant surgery, with the world's first successful whole-eye transplant. This groundbreaking procedure opens up new possibilities for restoring sight to those who have lost it. In Bangladesh, a disease was eliminated, showcasing the power of focused public health initiatives.
The year brought good news for children worldwide, as the global child mortality rate reached its lowest point in history. India, in particular, experienced a dramatic decline in malaria cases, while cancer death rates continued to fall in more affluent nations.
The battle against HIV/AIDS saw significant progress, with anti-HIV treatments becoming available to millions more people, resulting in a substantial drop in AIDS-related deaths. Ghana made impressive strides towards eliminating malaria, bringing hope to other nations still grappling with the disease.
In the realm of neuroscience, 2024 witnessed a major breakthrough in Alzheimer's treatment, offering new hope to millions affected by this devastating condition. The introduction of highly effective anti-obesity drugs marked a turning point in the fight against one of the world's most prevalent health issues.
Perhaps one of the most inspiring stories of the year was that of a paralyzed man who regained the ability to walk, thanks to revolutionary brain implant technology. This achievement not only changed one life but also paved the way for future advancements in treating paralysis.
The medical community celebrated the end of malaria in Belize and the introduction of the first vaccine against RSV, a common respiratory virus. Additionally, significant progress was made in combating the leading cause of blindness, bringing us closer to a world where preventable vision loss is a thing of the past.
As we look back on 2024, we're reminded of the incredible potential of medical science and human determination.
These advancements not only saved lives but also improved the quality of life for millions around the globe. While challenges remain, the progress made in 2024 gives us ample reason to be optimistic about the future of global health.
Let’s together welcome 2025 and hope for a better world for all of us around the world.
Best Regards
TN Krishnakumar
UAE Country Officer for Government Relations/ UAE Lions
Guiding Lion
Club President- Dubai Emerald Lions Club
President- Dubai Chapter, Pravasi Legal Cell
Loka Kerala Sabha Member 2024-2026( also 2022-2024)
