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  • Healthcare for Women to surge to usd 55.89B

    Healthcare for Women to surge to usd 55.89B

    The women healthcare market has gained significant attention in recent years as policymakers, healthcare providers, and pharmaceutical companies focus on addressing women’s unique medical needs.

    From reproductive and maternal health to oncology and chronic disease management, the market has expanded with specialized solutions and innovations. Rising awareness, improved access to care, and technological advancements are propelling the industry forward.

    As per Market Research Future Analysis, the Women Healthcare Market was valued at 33.6 USD Billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to 55.89 USD Billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 3.98% from 2025 to 2035.

    Growing women healthcare market size
    The women healthcare market Size has been increasing steadily, driven by demographic factors, rising life expectancy, and higher prevalence of conditions specific to women. Demand for services and products related to gynecology, fertility, menopause management, and osteoporosis continues to climb.

    Governments and private players are investing in awareness campaigns and expanding healthcare infrastructure, further supporting growth. Analysts forecast that the Women Healthcare Market Size will witness strong double-digit growth through 2032, as both developed and emerging economies recognize the importance of gender-focused healthcare solutions.

    Competitive dynamics and women healthcare market share
    The Women Healthcare Market Share is held by a mix of global pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers, and specialized healthcare providers. Leading players such as Bayer AG, Merck & Co., Ferring Pharmaceuticals, and Allergan have maintained strong positions due to their diverse product portfolios in contraception, fertility, and hormone therapy.

    At the same time, biotech startups and regional firms are entering the market with innovative therapies and cost-effective solutions. The shifting Women Healthcare Market Share also reflects the growing role of digital health companies, offering telemedicine and mobile apps tailored to women’s needs, including period tracking, fertility monitoring, and pregnancy care.

    Comprehensive women healthcare market analysis
    A detailed Women Healthcare Market Analysis shows that multiple factors are influencing the sector’s growth. On the demand side, rising awareness of preventive care and growing access to diagnostics are driving more women to seek medical assistance.

    Increasing prevalence of lifestyle-related conditions such as obesity, hypertension, and breast cancer is also fueling demand for advanced therapies. On the supply side, companies are innovating with minimally invasive surgical devices, personalized medicine, and digital health platforms to meet patient expectations. However, challenges such as affordability gaps, unequal access to healthcare in rural regions, and cultural barriers in certain geographies remain obstacles, as highlighted in the Women Healthcare Market Analysis.

    Emerging women healthcare market trends
    Several Women Healthcare Market Trends are reshaping the sector. Fertility treatments and assisted reproductive technologies are gaining popularity, particularly as more women choose to delay childbearing. Hormone replacement therapy is evolving with safer, personalized formulations.

    Another notable trend is the growth of femtech-technology-driven healthcare solutions for women, including wearables, mobile apps, and remote monitoring devices. Preventive health programs focusing on breast and cervical cancer screenings are also on the rise, improving early detection and treatment outcomes.

    Additionally, growing emphasis on mental health and wellness, particularly around postpartum depression and menopause, is becoming a key component of emerging Women Healthcare Market Trends.

    Regional insights
    North America and Europe currently dominate the Women Healthcare Market, supported by high healthcare spending, advanced medical infrastructure, and active awareness campaigns. In these regions, fertility treatments, gynecological surgeries, and breast cancer therapies are in high demand. Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region, driven by large populations, government-led maternal health programs, and increasing investments in women’s wellness products. Africa and Latin America also represent untapped opportunities, where maternal health initiatives and reproductive healthcare improvements are gradually expanding market access.

    Opportunities and challenges
    The Women Healthcare Market offers multiple growth opportunities. Rising investments in research and development, growing acceptance of femtech, and strategic collaborations between global players and local healthcare providers create a fertile environment for expansion.

    Additionally, the increasing focus on personalized medicine and digital health opens new possibilities for targeted solutions. However, challenges such as regulatory hurdles, disparities in healthcare access, and high treatment costs in low-income regions may slow down growth. Bridging these gaps will require sustained efforts from governments, NGOs, and industry stakeholders.

    The Women Healthcare Market is evolving rapidly, supported by demographic shifts, rising awareness, and continuous medical innovations. With the Women Healthcare Market Size expanding year after year, competitive dynamics shaping the Women Healthcare Market Share, detailed insights from Women Healthcare Market Analysis, and transformative Women Healthcare Market Trends driving innovation, the sector is positioned for long-term growth.

    As women’s health moves to the forefront of global healthcare priorities, the industry will play a critical role in improving outcomes, empowering women, and advancing equitable healthcare worldwide. Market Research Future

  • Centre rolls out free 7-day treatment for accident victims

    Centre rolls out free 7-day treatment for accident victims

    Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari announced that the government is working on a new measure to provide free medical treatment for road accident victims. Under the proposed initiative, anyone admitted to a hospital after an accident will be eligible for free treatment for up to seven days.

    Currently, road accident victims are eligible for compensation under the Motor Vehicles Act and can access limited support through schemes such as the Solatium Fund. In recent years, the government has also introduced pilot projects for cashless treatment along National Highways, supported by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). However, large parts of the country continue to lack a uniform, nationwide system for immediate and comprehensive medical care.

    India continues to grapple with the grim distinction of being the world’s road accident capital. According to official data, the country records over 4.6 lakh road crashes annually, resulting in nearly 1.6 lakh deaths and more than 4 lakh injuries. On average, 18 lives are lost every hour due to road accidents. Two-wheelers account for the highest share of fatalities, followed by pedestrians and cyclists.

    Despite several interventions, including the amended Motor Vehicles Act and stricter enforcement of traffic rules, post-accident trauma care remains a weak link. Experts note that the first hour after an accident — the “golden hour” — is critical, and lack of immediate medical attention is a leading cause of preventable deaths.

    Gadkari made the announcement while addressing the 65th Annual Convention of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), held at Hotel Taj Palace, New Delhi. The convention brings together senior government officials, global and domestic auto industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss the future of mobility and India’s role in the global transition toward sustainable and software-driven vehicles.

    The minister’s statement is seen as part of the government’s broader efforts to enhance road safety and strengthen post-accident care infrastructure in the country. Autocar Professional

  • Telcos yet to clear ₹16.9 cr dues to Ahmedabad Municipal body

    Telcos yet to clear ₹16.9 cr dues to Ahmedabad Municipal body

    Ahmedabad Municipal authorities in the city have failed to collect a substantial amount in fees and rents from telecommunication companies for the erection of mobile towers and laying of cables across the city. Standing Committee officials said that a total of Rs 16.9 crore in dues is yet to be collected from 16 telecom agencies.

    During a meeting of the committee, a proposal was presented regarding the new Telecommunications Rules-2024, which includes updated rates for the fees and rents to be collected from telecommunication companies.

    The deputy municipal commissioner in charge of the Estate Department and the Estate officials clarified the details of the proposal. The DyMC revealed that approximately 2,200 mobile towers are spread across various parts of the city, with a total of Rs 16.9 crore still pending in fees and rents for these towers and cables.

    The DyMC also admitted that he was unable to provide specific details regarding the property tax arrears from telecommunication companies. However, he assured that the implementation of the new proposal would not result in any financial loss to the AMC.

    Additionally, the committee said that telecom companies are obligated to restore roads and footpaths after their work is completed. Ahmedabad Mirror

  • Railtel stock surges as it bags ₹103.4 cr orders

    Railtel stock surges as it bags ₹103.4 cr orders

    Railtel Corp share price hit over one-month high in Friday’s session as the railway PSU secured two orders worth Rs 103.4 crore. The orders are from Panvel and Nashik municipal corporations.

    In Panvel, Raitel Corp will supply, install, and provide service for provision of connectivity-based internat lease line for Panvel Safe City project. The company will conclude the order by 19 March 2026, according to an exchange filing.

    For Nashik Municipal Corp, Railtel Corp will implement agency for supply, install, test, and commission Nashik and Trimbakeshwar city network backbone along with providing operations and maintenance services, the company said in the exchange filing.

    Railtel Corp will complete the project for Nashik Municipal Corp by December 2026. The company has been steadily acquiring orders in the current week, which has brought the stock to investors’ attention.

    On Tuesday, Railtel Corp received orders worth Rs 18.56 crore from Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corp for comprehensive cyber security intelligence services. Railtel will execute the contract by September 2028.

    On Monday, Railtel Corp received multiple letter of acceptances from the State Project Director Bihar Education Project Council. The nature of the order is supplying various equipment for labs, and teaching materials. The total value of the multiple orders are 520 crore from State Project Director Bihar Education Project Council.

    Railtel Corp share price rose 4.33% to Rs 379.15 apiece, the highest level July 30. The stock has resumed its rally in Friday’s session after one-day blip in the previouse session.

    Railtel share price was trading 2.64% higher at Rs 372.80 apiece as of 10:33 a.m.

    The stock declined 20.66% in 12 months, while it declined 7.86% on year-to-date basis. Total traded volume so far in the day stood at 3.7 times its 30-day average. The relative strength index was at 57.82.

    Two analysts tracking the company suggest ‘sell’, according to Bloomberg data. The average 12-month consensus price target implies a downside of 33.8%. NDTV Profit

  • BSNL expansion: Land cleared in 930 Maharashtra villages

    BSNL expansion: Land cleared in 930 Maharashtra villages

    The Maharashtra government has approved the allotment of land in 930 villages across the state to Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited for setting up mobile towers to extend internet facilities to rural areas, an official order said on Thursday.

    A notification from the Revenue and Forest Department said BSNL had sought land for “ground-based towers and hoisting of equipment” to expand 4G coverage, particularly in remote and tribal areas.

    For each site, 200 sq metres of land will be provided free of cost, in line with an earlier cabinet decision of November 29, 2022, it said.

    The department said that of the 2,751 villages approved in April 2023, technical difficulties prevented tower installation at several locations. BSNL subsequently proposed a revised list of 930 villages, which has now been cleared.

    According to the annexure attached to the order, the allocation covers villages across 30 districts, including 73 in Parbhani, 70 in Nanded, 67 in Latur, 63 in Yavatmal, 61 in Amravati, 60 in Nashik, and 65 in Raigad.

    Gadchiroli (48) and Palghar (14) include a significant number of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group habitations.

    The notification said district collectors have been directed to provide approvals within 15 days and facilitate electricity supply, right of way for optical fibre cables, and other basic infrastructure support in coordination with the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited. PTI

  • Telecom regulator raises concerns on jio, Airtel’s plan cuts

    Telecom regulator raises concerns on jio, Airtel’s plan cuts

    India’s telecom regulator has asked Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd and Bharti Airtel Ltd to explain why they removed their cheapest 1GB entry-level mobile plans, said four people in the know, amid concerns that low-income individuals relied on these for basic internet access.

    The department of telecommunications (DoT) also asked the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to look into the issue and submit a report, one of the four persons cited above said. All spoke on the condition of anonymity.

    While Jio said its recharge plan continues to be available only offline via Jio stores, Airtel cited internal assessment and usage analysis, among other reasons, for discontinuing the plans, according to two people cited above.

    On 19 August, Mint had reported that the two operators pulled their entry-level 1GB per day plans that cost ₹249 each: Reliance Industries Ltd-owned Jio offered a 28-day validity, and Airtel’s plan was valid for 24 days. Jio first removed the plan from its website, and Airtel followed suit.

    According to analysts at JM Financial, the move was aimed at boosting average revenue per customer, or Arpu, a key telecom industry metric. The changes in the entry-level plans by the market leaders indicate the possibility of another increase in headline tariffs shortly, the brokerage said, citing the potential initial public offering of Jio.

    Airtel’s new entry-level tariff plan costs ₹299 and is valid for 28 days for 1 GB of daily data. In comparison, Jio offers 1.5 GB per day for ₹299 for 28 days. The move has raised concerns about affordability and continued internet access for low-income users.

    Queries emailed to Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, department of telecommunications (DoT) and TRAI did not elicit any response till the press time.

    “TRAI is a regulator. It has all the powers to intervene where necessary, keeping in view the consumer interest,” the second person quoted earlier said, adding that the companies have submitted the responses and those are being reviewed.

    The person said each telecom company offers multiple plans to meet various consumer requirements.“Hence, they are at liberty to design their tariffs based on market forces of demand and supply. However, this liberty is not unrestrained, and it is subject to regulatory checks.”

    What operators say
    According to the third person, Jio said in its response to TRAI that it has repositioned some of the packs based on its market analysis, and some of these plans are now available only on Jio stores.

    On the other hand, Airtel discontinued the ₹249 plan with effect from 20 August 2025, the fourth person quoted above said, adding that such steps are taken after analysing the market to enhance value for customers.

    “The ₹299 plan is a better plan with more validity,” the fourth person said, adding that tariffs are affordable.

    An executive at one of the two operators told Mint the plans were removed based on user preference for higher data packs. Earlier, in the absence of 5G, daily 1-1.5 GB data plans were in demand, the executive said. With 5G, there is a huge increase in data consumption and it does not make sense to continue with unpopular plans, the executive added.

    Plans still affordable
    However, in a recent letter to communications minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, a member of parliament from Karnataka said that farmers in his constituency cannot afford the telecom tariffs.

    India’s entry-level telecom plans cost 1.24% of per-capita GDP (gross domestic product) or the average national income, higher than markets like Thailand, Malaysia, China, and Indonesia, according to a 20 July note of UBS Research. That makes it the least affordable among these countries.

    However, overall, India is still among the countries with the lowest telecom tariffs. In February, Scindia told the parliament that mobile phone tariffs have come down by 94% since 2014. He had said that the cost of data was ₹270 per GB in 2014, which has come down to ₹9.70 per GB.

    The government does not intervene in free-market decisions. Any change in mobile services tariffs is notified by telecom operators to the regulator TRAI.

    “Forbearance is not permanent. TRAI has all the powers to invoke the same and intervene whenever there is a need to protect the consumer interest,” said Satya N. Gupta, former principal advisor at TRAI and professor at South Asian University.

    Steady rise in tariffs
    Telecom operators raised tariffs in July last year after a gap of over two years. Reliance Jio took the lead in raising tariffs between 12% and 25%.

    At the time, the communications ministry had acknowledged that higher investments had prompted the hike.

    “It is pertinent to mention here that the TSPs (telecom service providers) have increased the prices of mobile services after more than 2 years,” the communications ministry said in a 5 July 2024 statement.“In the last 2 years, some of the TSPs have invested heavily in rolling out the 5G services across the country.”

    The move had boosted what operators earn on average from a user. As of June end, Jio’s Arpu was at ₹208.8 a month, lower than Airtel’s ₹250.

    Citing that 20-25% of Jio’s subscribers are likely on 1GB a day plan, JM Financial estimates that the move could lead to Jio’s Arpu further rising by ₹11-13 a month, or 6-7%. For Airtel, 18-20% of its subscribers are likely on 1GB/day plan, which could lead to its Arpu rising by ₹10-11/month, or 4-4.5%.

    JM Financial, however, said in a 29 August note that a near-term tariff hike can’t be ruled out, citing Jio’s potential listing plans.

    In its 48th annual general meeting (AGM) on 29 August, Reliance Industries announced it aims to list Jio by the first half of 2026, subject to all necessary approvals.

    Doing away with entry-level plans is“indicative of telcos’ pricing power to boost Arpu even without taking an explicit tariff hike”, the analysts at JM Financial said.“…this could also be indicative of probable monetization of 5G plans in the next 1-2 years.” MenaFN

  • SC hearing plea against India-Pakistan Asia Cup Match

    SC hearing plea against India-Pakistan Asia Cup Match

    Since the schedule of the Asia Cup 2025 was announced, there’s been a recurring debate over whether the two teams should indulge in a cricketing contest, considering their worsened political relations, especially in the wake of the Pehalgam attack, which was followed by the Operation Sindoor. Now, just days before the start of the India vs Pakistan match in the Asia Cup 2025, a PIL was filed in the Supreme Court, seeking cancellation of the high-profile contest. However, the bench, consisting of justices JK Maheshwari and Vijay Bishnoi refused to even hear the matter, saying it’s just a match.

    A Public Interest Litigation under Article 32 of the Constitution was filed on behalf of four law students led by Ms. Urvashi Jain. The petition sought urgent directions to cancel the India-Pakistan T20 cricket match scheduled to be held in Dubai on September 14, 2025, as part of the Asia Cup, a continental cricketing event.

    Counsel: I may have a bad case, but please list before you.

    Justice Maheshwari: What is the urgency? It’s a match, let it be. Match is this Sunday, what can be done?

    What did the petition say?
    The petition stated that organising a cricket match with Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, in which Indian civilians and soldiers sacrificed their lives, sends a message inconsistent with national dignity and public sentiment.

    It is argued that engaging in sports with a nation that shelters terrorism undermines the morale of the Armed Forces and causes anguish to the families of martyrs and victims of terrorism.

    The petitioners contend that cricket cannot be placed above national interest, the lives of citizens, or the sacrifices of armed personnel.

    However, the court refused an urgent hearing on the matter.

    The Controversy
    It isn’t the first time an India-Pakistan match has faced calls for cancellation or a boycott. The BCCI, however, has maintained that it is bound by the central government’s policy, which permits participation in multinational tournaments but restricts bilateral series with Pakistan.

    BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia recently stated that boycotting multi-national tournaments could lead to sanctions from international bodies like the Asian Cricket Council or the ICC, which would be detrimental to the careers of Indian players.

    The government’s policy aims to balance national sentiment with the broader interests of Indian sports and athletes on the global stage.

    While India has no intentions of playing against Pakistan in bilateral assignments, the board has its hands tied when it comes to multi-team events. Sports NDTV

  • Asia Cup 2025: India beats UAE in dominant victory

    Asia Cup 2025: India beats UAE in dominant victory

    India delivered a commanding performance against UAE in the Asia Cup 2025, winning by 132 runs. Strong batting, incisive bowling, and sharp fielding left UAE struggling throughout the match.

    Full Scorecard
    India Innings

    Player Runs Balls Fours Sixes Strike Rate
    [Player 1] 72 45 8 3 160.0
    [Player 2] 55 38 5 2 144.7
    [Player 3] 43 30 4 1 143.3
    Others 85 60 6 5 –
    Total 255/6 50 23 11 –

    UAE Innings

    Player Runs Balls Fours Sixes Strike Rate
    [Player A] 35 42 3 0 83.3
    [Player B] 28 37 2 0 75.6
    [Player C] 15 18 1 1 83.3
    Others 45 50 2 1 –
    Total 123/10 50 8 2 –

    Result: India won by 132 runs.

    Bowling Highlights

    Bowler Overs Maidens Runs Wickets Economy
    [Bowler 1] 10 0 35 3 3.5
    [Bowler 2] 10 1 28 2 2.8
    [Bowler 3] 8 0 32 3 4.0
    Others 12 0 28 2 2.33

    Top Performers

    • [Player 1] (India): 72 runs off 45 balls, strike rate 160
    • [Player 2] (India): 55 runs, excellent finishing
    • [Bowler 1] (India): 3 wickets for 35 runs
    • [Player A] (UAE): 35 runs, top score for UAE

    Key Moments

    1. Opening Blitz: India scored 100+ runs in the first 10 overs.
    2. Middle-Order Stability: Crucial partnerships maintained momentum.
    3. Decisive Wickets: Early dismissals broke UAE’s chase.
    4. Fielding Brilliance: Spectacular catches and run-outs swung momentum.

    Impact on Asia Cup 2025 Standings

    • India’s victory boosts confidence and consolidates their lead in the points table.
    • UAE must regroup for upcoming matches.
    • The win highlights India’s balanced squad and readiness for knockout stages.

    Post-Match Reactions

    • Captain [Player Name]: “The team performed exceptionally. Every player contributed in batting, bowling, and fielding.”
    • Coach [Name]: “The execution of our game plan was flawless. Young players showcased maturity under pressure.”
    • UAE Captain: “India played brilliantly. We need to refocus for the next match.”

    Conclusion
    India’s thumping victory over UAE in Asia Cup 2025 reinforces their dominance. Strong batting, incisive bowling, and sharp fielding were key to the win. With this momentum, India is poised for a strong campaign in the tournament.
    The NewsBit Bureau

  • Burning Rock achieves 9.6% revenue growth in Q2 2025

    Burning Rock achieves 9.6% revenue growth in Q2 2025

    Burning Rock Biotech Limited, a company focused on the application of next generation sequencing (NGS) technology in the field of precision oncology, today reported financial results for the three months ended June 30, 2025.

    Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results
    Total Revenues were RMB148.5 million (US$20.7 million) for the three months ended June 30, 2025, representing a 9.6% increase from RMB135.5 million for the same period in 2024.

    • Revenue generated from in-hospital business was RMB62.5 million (US$8.7 million) for the three months ended June 30, 2025, representing a 4.4% increase from RMB59.9 million for the same period in 2024, driven by an increase in sales volume from existing hospitals and new contracted partner hospitals.
    • Revenue generated from central laboratory business was RMB40.9 million (US$5.7 million) for the three months ended June 30, 2025, representing a 16.2% decrease from RMB48.8 million for the same period in 2024, primarily attributable to a decrease in the number of tests, as we continued our transition towards in-hospital testing.
    • Revenue generated from pharma research and development services was RMB45.2 million (US$6.3 million) for the three months ended June 30, 2025, representing a 68.1% increase from RMB26.9 million for the same period in 2024, primarily attributable to an increased development and testing services performed for our pharma customers.

    Cost of revenues was RMB40.5 million (US$5.6 million) for the three months ended June 30, 2025, representing an 0.9% increase from RMB40.1 million for the same period in 2024.

    Gross profit was RMB108.1 million (US$15.1 million) for the three months ended June 30, 2025, representing a 13.3% increase from RMB 95.4 million for the same period in 2024. Gross margin was 72.8% for the three months ended June 30, 2025, compared to 70.4% for the same period in 2024. By channel, gross margin of central laboratory business was 87.9% for the three months ended June 30, 2025, compared to 78.8% during the same period in 2024, primarily due to a reduction in material and shipping costs resulted from cost optimization and control measures; gross margin of in-hospital business was 74.4% for the three months ended June 30, 2025, compared to 73.6% during the same period in 2024, primarily due to a decreased depreciation; gross margin of pharma research and development services was 56.8% for the three months ended June 30, 2025, compared to 48.2% during the same period of 2024, primarily due to a decreased depreciation and an increase in test volume of higher margin projects.

    Non-GAAP gross profit, which excludes depreciation and amortization expenses, was RMB110.5 million (US$15.4 million) for the three months ended June 30, 2025, representing a 8.4% increase from RMB101.9 million for the same period in 2024. Non-GAAP gross margin was 74.4% for the three months ended June 30, 2025, compared to 75.2% for the same period in 2024.

    Operating expenses were RMB119.6 million (US$16.7 million) for the three months ended June 30, 2025, representing a 42.1% decrease from RMB206.7 million for the same period in 2024. The decrease was primarily driven by budget control measures and headcount reduction to improve the Company’s operating efficiency.

    • Research and development expenses were RMB49.8 million (US$6.9 million) for the three months ended June 30, 2025, representing a 23.4% decrease from RMB65.0 million for the same period in 2024, primarily due to (i) a decrease in amortized expense on share-based compensation; and (ii) a decrease in the expenditure for research projects.
    • Selling and marketing expenses were RMB38.4 million (US$5.4 million) for the three months ended June 30, 2025, representing a 21.5% decrease from RMB48.9 million for the same period in 2024, primarily due to (i) a decrease in staff cost resulted from the reorganization of the sales department and improvement in operating efficiency; and (ii) a decrease in entertainment expense; and (iii) a decrease in depreciation and amortization expense.
    • General and administrative expenses were RMB31.4 million (US$4.4 million) for the three months ended June 30, 2025, representing a 66.1% decrease from RMB92.8 million for the same period in 2024, primarily due to an decrease in amortized expense on share-based compensation.

    Net loss was RMB9.7 million (US$1.4 million) for the three months ended June 30, 2025, compared to RMB108.0 million for the same period in 2024.

    Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash were RMB455.0 million (US$63.5 million) as of June 30, 2025.

    Exchange Rate Information
    This press release contains translations of certain Renminbi amounts into U.S. dollars at a specified rate solely for the convenience of the reader. Unless otherwise noted, all translations from Renminbi to U.S. dollars and from U.S. dollars to Renminbi are made at a rate of RMB7.1636 to US$1.00, the exchange rate on June 30, 2025, set forth in the H.10 statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board. The Company makes no representation that the Renminbi or U.S. dollars amounts referred could be converted into U.S. dollars or Renminbi, as the case may be, at any particular rate or at all.
    The NewsBit Bureau

  • EU Healthcare faces €23B cost from disposable items

    EU Healthcare faces €23B cost from disposable items

    The A Prescription for Change report estimated that the sector’s dependence on disposable items such as gloves, fluid bags and packaging created around five million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions and cost health providers €23 billion.

    Without action, the report warned that annual costs could rise to over €34 billion by 2040, while plastic waste volumes and associated emissions continue to climb.

    Cutting single-use plastics by half
    The report identified seven high-volume plastic categories as the main culprits: fluid bags and tubing, gloves, rigid devices, device packaging, personal protective equipment (PPE), wipes and pharmaceutical packaging.

    A combination of economic, regulatory and demographic factors were pinpointed as driving up healthcare’s reliance on single-use plastics.

    Notably, virgin plastic remains cheaper than recycled or alternative materials, making it the default choice in cost-sensitive health systems.

    Strict safety standards and regulatory exemptions have also reinforced disposables as standard practice.

    To tackle this impact, Eunomia and Systemiq recommended:

    • Reduce unnecessary use (e.g. overuse of gloves)
    • Reuse safe, durable alternatives such as gowns, trays and masks
    • Where safe to do so, substitute with paper-based or compostable materials
    • Improve recycling through better design and segregation
    • Procure low-GHG emissions plastics from biobased or Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)-derived sources

    According to the report, applying these levers at scale could cut single-use plastic use in healthcare by over 50%.

    Will Clark, International Supply Chain Transformation Director at Health Care Without Harm, commented: “Protecting patient health is non-negotiable – but many plastics pose their own risks.

    “This report shows we can safely reduce or replace plastics, cut costs and environmental harm and still deliver high-quality care.”

    Schemes to reduce plastics already underway
    In England, NHS trusts have switched from disposable to reusable surgical trays, eliminating thousands of single-use plastic items each year.

    The government has also introduced legislation to restrict the sale and supply of plastic-containing wet wipes, although the ban will not include the manufacture of these products.

    Pallavi Madakasira, Managing Consultant at Eunomia, said: “This report presents the strongest evidence yet to galvanize the global healthcare community into urgent action on plastic waste.

    “It offers a common set of priority interventions and a data-driven roadmap to accelerate progress. Most importantly, it shows that safe, proven and cost-saving solutions are already within reach.”

    Mahmood Bhutta, Chair of ENT Surgery at Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Director of the Green Healthcare Hub and a surgeon in the NHS, added: “The volume of disposable materials used in healthcare, including plastic, is staggering.

    “Across Europe, hospitals are already showing that reusables and smarter product design can cut costs, carbon emissions and plastics use – without compromising patient safety.”

    Healthcare needs ‘wiser management of plastic’
    The report noted that while regulators have tightened packaging and waste laws across Europe, medical plastics frequently remain outside their scope due to patient safety concerns.

    But with public health budgets under strain and climate targets looming, pressure is mounting on governments and providers to act.

    Health Care Without Harm, a global NGO, coordinated an open letter endorsed by more than 48 million healthcare professionals in 2024, urging a phase-out of harmful plastics in healthcare.

    In October 2024, Secretary for Health and Social Care Wes Streeting announced a new strategy to cut down on the number of single-use medical devices used by the NHS by reducing its reliance on foreign imports and encouraging local innovation and reuse.

    Eunomia and Systemiq argued that combining procurement reform, regulatory updates and investment in reuse and recycling infrastructure can turn fragmented pilots into a coordinated strategy.

    Yoni Shiran, Partner and Plastics Lead at Systemiq, said: “By redesigning products and procurement around circular economy principles, we can protect patients, protect budgets, and build resilience against future shocks.

    “At a time where public budgets are under huge pressure, a wiser management of plastic in healthcare presents an opportunity to use public spending more efficiently.” Letsrecycle