Health& Fitness BusinessMirror PATAS, a breakthrough drug seen to revolutionize treatment for Type 2 diabetes

By Rory Visco Contributor

IN a study published on The Lancet ( www.thelancet.com ) titled “Global, regional, and national burden of diabetes from 1990 to 2021, with projections of prevalence to 2050: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021” published a little less than two months ago, it saw that from 529 million diabetes cases around the world in 2021, this is seen to balloon to a staggering 1.3 billion cases by the year 2050.

For Type 2 diabetes, which is present in 96 percent of all global cases, the primary risk factor was high body mass index (BMI) which accounted for 52.2 percent in terms of disability and mortality. This is followed by dietary risks, environmental or occupation, low physical activity or sedentary lifestyle, and tobacco and alcohol consumption.

In the Philippines, the study showed that the DALY (disability-adjusted life year, a measure of overall disease burden or number of years lost due to ill-health, disability or early death) rates per 100,000 population was at 1,190, second only to Indonesia’s 2,570.

Risks of diabetes in the Philippines

TH E International Diabetes Federation is alarmed by the rapid increase of adults diagnosed with diabetes in the Philippines, which is seen to further soar to 5.4 million cases by 2030 and up to 7.5 million by 2045. This disease is currently the fourth

By Roderick L. Abad Contributor

TO address the pressing Human r e source for Health (H r H ) shortage in the Philippines, the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Healthcare and Jobs Sectors, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Department of Health (DOH) have banded together to formulate innovative strategies and solutions to this issue.

Guided by the vision of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s administration, the PSAC Healthcare Sector led by AC Health President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Paolo Borromeo has taken a multifaceted approach, rallying various stakeholders to tackle this concern head-on.

After rigorous consultations and deliberations, the Nurse Workforce Complementation and Upskilling Program came into being. This transformative leading cause of mortality in the Philippines. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported in January 2023 that 26,774 Filipinos died due to diabetes mellitus the previous year.

Lifestyle changes and regular intake of diabetes medications are recommended by experts. The Department of Health, on the other hand, continues to develop and evaluate add-on treatments for people with diabetes mellitus, as patients and medical practitioners alike continue to find better ways to manage diabetes treatments.

Diabetes medication breakthrough

THE diabetes study breakthrough emerged following research into Alstrom Syndrome, an ultra-rare genetic disease in children. It is associated with obesity and severe insulin resistance that leads to type 2 diabetes and an accelerated form of liver steatosis and fibrosis. The researchers found that insulin resistance was linked to the dysfunctional protein, ALMS1.

Building on this previous research, the multinational team next discovered that in normal fat cells and upon insulin signaling, a protein called PKC alpha is released from ALMS1 to trigger glucose uptake. With insulin resistance, PKC alpha is no longer released from ALMS1 and hence glucose is no longer absorbed by the fat cells to be utilized.

Monash University, Australia’s largest and most global university, together with a team of internation - al researchers, decoded what causes insulin resistance in fat tissue cells, which has been a major stumbling block in treating and preventing type 2 diabetes. This research gave birth to the development of a breakthrough peptide drug called PATAS, a new drug that “reboots” how fat cells use insulin to revolutionize type 2 diabetes treatment and improve the outlook of hundreds of millions of patients globally.

Injection or patch

Dr. Vincent Marion, the study coordinator of Inserm, France’s National Institute of Health and Medical r e search, and deputy director at the Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Strasbourg, France, along with his team, designed PATAS and has shown that it was able to fix this problem by enabling glucose to be used in fat cells.

PATAS, which is being developed by AdipoPharma, a French biotech company, could be delivered by simple injection and possibly a patch. It may also have the potential to prevent type 2 diabetes, a major global epidemic, largely driven by obesity.

Dr. Marion shared that in cultured human adipocytes as well as in most relevant animal models, PATAS was able to separate the proteins and restore normal function of glucose uptake and utilization in the fat cells.

On the other hand, co-researcher Paul Zimmet AO (Officer of the Order of Australia), a Professor of Diabetes at Monash University, said the discovery could improve metabolic control of diabetes and reduce the risk of the serious complications of diabetes including heart, kidney, liver, and eye disease.

Abnormality in fat cells

H E s aid PATAS corrects an abnormality in fat cells by separating two proteins, ALMS1 and PKC alpha, that are associated with insulin resistance by blocking insulin from initiating glucose uptake. In rodent studies, PATAS reduced insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, and fat buildup in the liver (steatosis). Beneficial effects were also observed in glucose-intolerant animal models. Similarly, when used on cultured human fat cells in the laboratory and independent contract research organizations, the drug reactivated glucose uptake in the fat cells.

Professor Zimmet said the discovery was potentially one of the most important he had seen in his 45 years of diabetes research. “This is a very exciting discovery that could have enormous health benefits, not just for people with type 2 diabetes, but also for patients with other chronic medical disorders caused by insulin resistance including cardiac diseases, and fatty liver and the Metabolic Syndrome,” he explained.

The research was led by Inserm, France’s National Institute of Health and Medical r e search, in collaboration with the University of Birmingham (UK) and Monash University. Human clinical trials are likely to start within this year.

Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz

Childhood pneumonia cases on the rise in the PHL, say infectious disease experts

By John Eiron R. Francisco

CHILDHOOD p neumonia cases are on the rise and infectious disease experts warned that this trend will continue unless steps are taken to address this health concern.

Dr. Ana Ong-Lim, Section Chief, Infectious and Tropical Disease in Pediatrics of UP-PGH, said during a media briefing organized by GlaxoSmithKline Philippines, said that the loosening of quarantine restrictions and the “return to normal” will contribute to the uptick in respiratory diseases.

“We have to exercise extra vigilance, pay more attention to how we can prevent this condition, particularly pneumonia,” she added. r e ports reveal that childhood pneumonia claimed the lives of 60,500 Filipino children in 2022. The same reports added that a significant number of those who died were under the age of five.

“I have observed that pneumonia is taken for granted but if you really look into this, it is a very significant health problem,” said Dr. Maria Z. Capeding, Head, Medical r e search Unit of the Tropical Disease Foundation and President of the Philippine Foundation for Vaccination.

Childhood pneumonia is an infectious disease that manifests with symptoms in a child’s lungs which causes complications in breathing. These complications may further lead to lung abscess, sepsis, bactermia or bacteria in the bloodstream, respiratory failure, and death.

In 2019, some 740,180 children under five years old died of pneumonia, accounting for 14 percent of all deaths under five years old. However, this accounted for 22 percent of all deaths in children aged one to five years old.

According to the Department of Health, pneumonia is one of the leading causes of child mortality in the Philippines. Several factors contribute to the prevalence of pneumonia among children in the Philippines.

Poor living conditions, limited access to clean water, inadequate nutrition and overcrowded urban areas are some of the key factor that increase the vulnerability of children to respiratory infections.

Capeding emphasized the importance of continuing pandemic related practices such as the wearing of masks as this has been scientifically proven to effectively prevent respiratory illnesses such as Covid-19 and pneumonia.

She added that vaccination against bacterial infections like Streptococcus pneumoniae can help prevent a significant proportion of pneumonia cases. It also shields them from other associated diseases.

Other measures that can help reduce childhood pneumonia include proper frequent handwashing, maintaining cleanliness in the households, breastfeeding and seeking prompt medical care if a child is suspected of having pneumonia.

initiative empowers Clinical Care Associates (CCAs) with vital training and the chance to contribute to essential noncore functions under the mentorship of registered nurses.

Capacity building

TO capacitate further the healthcare workers in the country, CHED Chairman Prospero De Vera III and DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa signed the Joint Administrative Order (JAO) on Implementing Guidelines for the Nurse Workforce Complementation and Upskilling Program for CCAs.

This initiative, crafted in line with PSAC Healthcare’s recommendations to the chief executive, leap frogged the quest to solve the critical lack of H r H nationwide.

“I commend the Department of Health and the Commission on Higher Education for co-creating this program with us, which institutionalizes and de - velops Clinical Care Associates to receive training in healthcare facilities and assume vital non-core functions. This comp lements the required staffing in both public and private hospitals,” said PSAC Healthcare Sector Member and MediCard Philippines President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Nicanor Montoya.

Onboarding the underboard

THE JAO’s provisions are designed to boost and support underboard BS Nursing graduates in the country.

Such measure paves the way for these aspiring healthcare professionals to be employed while also allowing them to prepare for their nursing licensure examination via review programs in participating Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).

This impressive move sets the stage for the seamless integration of these graduates into the nursing workforce, filling the gaps and guaranteeing a well- rounded and dynamic healthcare system.

“What sets this program apart and makes it commendable is that it not only offers training and employment opportunities to underboard BS Nursing graduates but also establishes a mechanism for them to transition into a review program. This prepares them for the licensure exam and ultimately paves the way for them to become fully qualified nurses in the future,” said Dr. Montoya.

The ceremonial signing of the JAO was graced by DOH Undersecretary Dr. Kenneth r onquillo, DOH Health Human r e source Development Bureau Director Johanna Banzon, representatives from PSAC Jobs Sector, HEIs, and both public and private healthcare institutions.

This event highlighted the commitment of all stakeholders to forge a healthcare landscape that is resilient, compassionate, and equipped to meet the nation’s healthcare requirements with relentless efficiency.

DOH to adopt 90-70-90 strategy in fight against cervical cancer

By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes Contributor

THE Department of Health (DOH) will implement a 90-70-90 strategy to eliminate cervical cancer in the country.

In her message read by Dr. Jan Llevado, Chief, Cancer Control Division, Department of Health (DOH), Health Undersecretary Maria r o sario Vergeire said the first part of the plan is to vaccinate 90 percent of nine to 15-year-old girls vaccinated against HPV.

“We will target 70 percent of the women to undergo high quality screening while we aim to hit 90 percent of diagnosed women to receive timely and appropriate care,” Vergeire said in her presentation during the recently concluded 12th HPV Summit, themed “One Community Against HPV” held in Araneta City.

Vergeire said the DOH has been implementing several forms of intervention through the Core Continuum to assist

Filipinas to develop a proactive stance against HPV and cervical cancer. The first step involves health promotion by spreading awareness to the population to stop the development of cervical cancer in the initial stage. She added screening and early detection will be important to ensure that challenges will be addressed at the early stage of the cancer. The fourth part is the treatment and palliation.

Cancer specialty centers

TH r O UGHOUT the Care Continuum program, Vergeire said cervical cancer patients will be treated at the Cancer Specialty Centers. As of 2023, the country has seven Cancer Specialty Centers. “We plan to put up 25 more centers to address the needs of the Filipinos,” she said. The specialized centers will manage the advanced and highly-complex conditions of patients. In order to reach out to many patients, the DOH will ensure a strategic and equitable distribution of facilities. Moreover, highly-specialized services will be offered to a small percentage of the population.

In the National Demographic Survey of 2022, Vergeire highlighted the cervical cancer risk factors. According to the study, one percent of women aged 15 to 24 had sex by age 15 years old. In the 18 to 24 bracket, the study showed women had sex by age 18. Five percent of young women aged 15 to 24 “engaged in sex with a person who was neither their husband or lived with them.” Moreover, the study showed that seven percent of women aged 15 to 49 years old who have had sex reported having sexually transmitted infections (STI) or having their symptoms.

Cause of death

ACCOr DING to the Institut de Cancérologie de l’Ouest (ICO) study in 2022, 37.8 million Filipinas were at risk for dying from cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death among fe - males in the country.

The summit had three key objectives: n To increase awareness of the benefits of HPV vaccination and screening as protection against cervical cancer among all stakeholders; n To encourage major stakeholders, especially local government units, as well as the private sector to expand HPV vaccination across age groups and beyond the current targets; and n To unite the community by creating a strong alliance against the disease, to inspire stakeholders to contribute to their best practices, innovative solutions, and renewed commitment to advocacy.

The event was jointly organized by the Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association of the Philippines and MSD in the Philippines, in partnership with the DOH, AC Health, Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society and the Society of Adolescent Medicine of the Philippines and the Cancer Warriors Foundation.

This infectious disease poses a greater risk to infants and children under two years old because their immune systems are still developing.

“Through a combination of preventive measures, community engagement, and improved healthcare access, the country can work towards significantly reducing the burden on its youngest citizens,” said Dr. Capeding.

5 Things You Should Know Before Using Retinol

rETINOL , a p owerful anti-aging ingredient, is widely used to address various skin concerns. Luxe Organix recently launched its r etinol line, featuring products that combine the benefits of r e tinol and Bakuchiol to reduce wrinkles, lines, scars, sun spots, and other imperfections. Before incorporating retinol into your skincare routine, it’s important to understand a few key things to ensure safe and effective usage.

Pea-sized Amount Application: r e tinol is a potent active ingredient. Even a small amount can provide significant benefits for the skin. Using more that needed may lead to unnecessary irritation or sensitivity especially if you are new to retinol or have a sensitive skin.

Best to use at night because of its sensitivity to sunlight. Overnight Treatment for Glowing

Skin: The Advanced r e tinol + Bakuchiol Overnight Glow Gentle Treatment Cream is designed to be used overnight. It contains a combination of r e tinol, Bakuchiol, 5X Hyaluronic Acid, Peptides, and Ceramides. This cream erases fine lines, promotes collagen production, deeply moisturizes, and boosts skin hydration while you sleep, leaving you with a radiant and youthful glow.

Look for Gentle and Safe For - mula: Luxe Organix’s Advanced r e tinol + Bakuchiol products have been formulated to be safe and non-irritating. The combination of r e tinol and Bakuchiol provides powerful anti-aging properties without harsh side ef - fects. This makes it suitable for those with sensitive skin as well.

Targeted Eye Care: The Advanced r e tinol + Bakuchiol Deep Wrinkle Eye Contour Overnight Cream specifically targets the delicate skin around the eyes. With a blend of r e tinol, Bakuchiol, Botaniceutical Plus-10, Peptides, and Ceramides, it helps prevent wrinkles, reduce dark circles and puffiness, and keep the eye area hydrated and nourished.

Don’t forget to use retinol on our body, too! For that Comprehensive Anti-Aging Solution: For the ultimate anti-aging experience, Luxe Organix offers the Niacinamide + r e tinol Cloud Soap.

Before using retinol, it is essential to choose products that are gentle, safe, and effective. Luxe Organix’s Advanced r et inol + Bakuchiol line offers a range of options to address specific skin concerns while providing hydration and anti-aging benefits. By understanding these key points, you can confidently incorporate retinol into your skincare routine and enjoy its remarkable effects on your skin.