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The World Health Organization on Tuesday wrapped up its executive board meeting, held against the backdrop of the United States — by far its largest donor — heading for the exit.

The agenda-setting eight-day gathering at the WHO’s Geneva headquarters wrestled with the impact of US President Donald Trump’s January 20 decision to start the one-year process of withdrawing from the UN health agency.

“We are operating with twin strategic goals: to mobilise resources and to tighten our belts,” WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in his closing remarks.

“We regret the announcement by the United States of its intention to withdraw, and it was also sad to see them participating less this week,” he said.

“I think we all felt their absence. We very much hope they will reconsider and we would welcome the opportunity to engage in constructive dialogue.”

The United States is on the executive board, but made only fleeting contributions throughout the eight-day event.

The board is composed of 34 member states, who nominate a board member who is technically qualified in health.

The board agrees the agenda and resolutions for the decision-making World Health Assembly in May.

“We have had to face new realities, with the announcement of the withdrawal of the US from the WHO,” said Barbados’s health minister Jerome Walcott, the board’s chair, as he closed the meeting.

“Despite the many challenges we faced, we have come together and found agreement on 40 decisions and seven resolutions, which aim to strengthen our work and to enhance good public health.”

Prioritising funding
If anything, the US move has driven home the need for more secure and reliable funding at WHO, which in recent years has relied heavily on voluntary contributions.

As part of a plan to swell membership fees to cover at least half of the organisation’s budget by 2030, the board recommended a 20 percent fee hike.

Boosting membership fees is seen as a way for WHO to reduce its reliance on a handful of major donors and ensure more predictable and flexible finances.

“This is a very strong signal of your support, and it’s a major step towards putting WHO on a more predictable and sustainable financial footing,” Tedros said.

“You said we need to prioritise based on realistic funding. We agree,” he added.

“You said we need to improve efficiency, enhance oversight and reduce unnecessary expenditures. We agree.”

Last week, the board also re-adopted a resolution on responding to the health conditions in the Palestinian territories.

The total planned costs required to implement the decision were given as $648 million, including $275 million for emergency response and $265 million for early recovery and rehabilitation.

Other topics discussed by the board included non-communicable diseases, mental health, skin diseases, environmental health, air pollution, the global health workforce, substandard and falsified medicines, maternal and newborn health, health emergencies, and universal health coverage. AFP

The global wearable technology market size is estimated to grow by USD 99.4 billion from 2025-2029, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of over 17.3% during the forecast period. Popularity of wearable devices as a payment method is driving market growth, with a trend towards development of low-power electronics. However, rising penetration of counterfeit products poses a challenge.

Key market trends fueling growth
The wearable technology market is experiencing significant growth, with smartwatches, swimmers, cyclists, runners, gym-goers, and athletes among the key consumer groups. Smart clothing and IoT-based apparel are also gaining popularity. Healthcare is a major sector, with smart wearables offering real-time health monitoring for patients and healthcare providers. Counterfeit products pose a challenge, but consumer electronics companies are innovating with electronic displays, connectivity, and mobile phone integration. Wearable technologies include fitness bands, AR/VR headsets, and pharma solutions. Older populations benefit from fall detection and gesture controls, while younger consumers drive demand for virtual and augmented reality devices. Wearables offer benefits for chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and obesity, and fitness enthusiasts and the tech-savvy younger population are key consumers. Data security is a concern, but the benefits of wearable healthcare devices, including health self-efficacy and autonomy, outweigh the risks. The market is expected to grow further with the integration of MEMS sensors, GPS, IMU, and fitness-tracking wearables. The consumer electronics segment is driving technological innovativeness, with digital health technology becoming increasingly important.

The global wearable technology market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for advanced wearable devices such as smartwatches, smart bands, smart rings, and Head-Mounted Displays (HMDs). To meet this demand, vendors are focusing on developing high-performance and low-power-consumption electronic components. These components, including sensors, processors, and batteries, are essential for enhancing the functionality and efficiency of wearable electronics. By adopting low-power-consumption semiconductors, vendors can create devices that offer extended battery life and improved performance. This trend is expected to continue as the market for wearable technology continues to expand.

Research analysis
Wearable technology is revolutionizing the way we monitor and manage our health and fitness. From smartwatches and fitness trackers for runners, cyclists, and swimmers, to IoT-based apparel for gym-goers, this market caters to various consumer needs. Healthcare professionals use wearables for remote patient monitoring, while consumers seek health self-efficacy through real-time data. Counterfeit products pose a challenge, but authentic wearables offer advanced features like electronic displays, connectivity to mobile phones, and health monitoring solutions using MEMS sensors, GPS, IMU, and clinical data. Wristwear includes fitness-tracking devices and head-mounted displays, expanding the realm of possibilities for this burgeoning industry. IoT-enabled garments and smart clothing further enhance the user experience, integrating electronic devices and electronic displays seamlessly into everyday life.

Market research overview
Wearable technology is revolutionizing the way we monitor and improve our health, with various types of devices catering to different consumer groups. Smartwatches, fitness bands, and IoT-based apparel are popular among athletes, adventurers, and fitness enthusiasts. Smart clothing and IoT-enabled garments are transforming the fashion industry, offering benefits like real-time health monitoring, connectivity, and even payment services. The healthcare sector is leveraging wearables for disease management, telehealth solutions, and medical practice, including pharma, surgical training, and health monitoring solutions. Consumers, from the younger population to older adults, are embracing wearable technologies as they offer benefits like health self-efficacy, health and autonomy, and technological innovativeness. However, concerns around data security and counterfeit products persist. The market for wearable technologies includes various electronic devices, from small sensors to smart hats, eyewear and headwear, footwear, neckwear, body wear, and more. The consumer electronics segment is a significant contributor, with companies exploring opportunities in multimedia industry, virtual reality, and augmented reality. Wearables are expected to become increasingly integrated with mobile phones, GPS, IMU, MEMS sensors, and mobile applications, offering clinical and non-clinical data to doctors and patients alike. The benefits of wearable technologies extend beyond fitness tracking, with applications in chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and obesity. As technological literacy grows, the purchasing power of consumers is driving the market forward, with companies continuously innovating to meet the diverse needs of their customers. Technavio

South India plays a significant role as a global leader, particularly in the services sector, with a spotlight on healthcare, tourism and economic growth. The summit, which brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators, marked a defining moment for South India as a dynamic force in economic growth and healthcare excellence,” said Ms Shobana Kamineni, Past President of CII and Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals at the closing of the CII Mystic South – Global Linkages Summit 2025.

“As a region accounting for 31% of India’s GDP, South India continues to outpace the national average in annual growth, showcasing its resilience, innovation, and economic dynamism. India supplies 20 percent of global pharmaceuticals to the world. The IT, ITeS, and biotechnology sectors stand at the forefront of South India’s global economic footprint,” she stressed.

Key to the region’s future growth, Ms Shobana pointed out the need for continuous investment in infrastructure, digital connectivity, and sustainable solutions. “We must invest in smarter cities, renewable energy, and a workforce ready for the challenges of emerging technologies to maintain our leadership in services and healthcare,” she pointed out.

South India is home to some of the country’s leading hospitals and medical institutions, including Apollo Hospitals, Narayana Health, and Manipal Hospitals, which have set global benchmarks in medical excellence. “South India has become a beacon of healthcare innovation, with cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kochi not only offering cutting-edge treatments but also driving groundbreaking medical research,” she added.

Over the past two days, attendees engaged in deep discussions, exploring South India’s contributions to India’s economic landscape. The summit also witnessed the announcement of several collaborations and partnerships aimed at enhancing South India’s infrastructure and healthcare capabilities. These initiatives are expected to bolster the region’s leadership role, further aligning with its commitment to developing smarter cities and sustainable solutions.

With several data-driven insights and success stories from industry leaders, the summit illuminated the tangible progress made in South India’s healthcare and service sectors. The region’s increasing focus on digital connectivity and green technologies is laying the foundation for its future leadership on the global stage.

Looking ahead, the summit has set the stage for South India’s next phase of growth. With its commitment to innovation, education, and sustainability, South India stands poised to lead the charge in shaping a resilient and globally competitive future. The summit has created a pathway for continued collaboration, ensuring the region’s role as a dynamic force in the global economy.

As the summit concluded, participants left with renewed confidence in South India’s ability to drive India’s global ambitions forward. With its integrated approach to innovation, education, and healthcare, South India is well-positioned to continue its leadership in shaping the future of services and healthcare on the global stage. SMEStreet

The Income Tax (IT) Department conducted raids at a private hospital, along with other facilities linked with the same, on Wednesday. The action was taken after complaint of disproportionate assets.

More than six teams from the department carried out simultaneous searches at two hospital branches, as well as the homes and offices of the hospital’s owners.

According to information, the raids took place at Parivar Super Specialty Hospital and Research Center near Mandhre Ki Mata Temple and Parivar Hospital on Hospital Road.

The IT teams are investigating financial documents following complaints of tax evasion. However, no official statement has been issued yet.

As soon as news of the raid spread, panic gripped the market. Several hospital owners from the area left their offices, fearing further action.

Investigation underway
The IT officials directly took control of the accounts office and the owner’s office to examine financial records. While the exact amount of tax evasion is unclear, the detailed investigation suggests that the case could be significant.

Security was tightened before the operation, and police personnel have been stationed outside the hospital. Only patient attendants who pass strict questioning are being allowed inside. The investigation is ongoing. Free Press Journal

A joint Russian-Chinese project on reverse engineering and localised production of high-tech medical equipment has been launched at I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University).

Specialists will focus on the development, improvement, and small-scale production of critical medical devices, including mechanical ventilators, anaesthesia and respiratory systems, patient monitors, endoscopes, and consumables.

According to Aleksander Kulish, Director of Technology Commercialisation at Sechenov University, the project aims not only to establish the production of in-demand equipment but also to achieve technological sovereignty for Russia in the field of medical equipment manufacturing. He clarified that Sechenov University will also set up a service department for technical maintenance.

“Our leading engineers, as well as doctors, will be involved in enhancing these devices. The participation of clinicians – the end users of medical equipment – will help ensure the development of truly high-quality and user-friendly products,” Kulish noted.

The initiative is being implemented at the university’s Centre for Engineering Development and Design Bureau, in collaboration with a major medical equipment manufacturer from China and other partners of Sechenov University. The production of key components and final products will be localised at industrial sites in Moscow and the Moscow region. TV BRICS

Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Egypt’s Deputy Prime Minister for Human Development and Minister of Health and Population, has met South Korean Ambassador to Egypt, Kim Yonghyon, to discuss bilateral cooperation in healthcare, human resource development, and South Korea’s biomedical investments.

A key outcome of the meeting was the launch of a $9m grant project aimed at improving emergency medical services in Upper Egypt, particularly in the Nag Hammady and Luxor region. This initiative aligns with Korea’s ongoing railway signal modernization projects, including the Nag Hammady–Luxor Corridor Signaling System Modernization Project (active since 2021) and the upcoming second-phase Luxor–High Dam Corridor project. The new healthcare initiative seeks to enhance emergency response capacity for railway-related accidents and other medical emergencies.

Starting next year, the project will introduce mobile clinics, upgrade emergency rooms, provide advanced medical equipment, and offer specialized training for emergency medical personnel. These measures aim to improve healthcare accessibility and strengthen Egypt’s overall emergency response, particularly in rural areas.

During the meeting, Ambassador Kim also highlighted the Dr. LEE Jong-wook Fellowship Program, named after the former WHO Director-General, and invited Egyptian healthcare professionals to participate. Organized by the Korea Foundation for International Healthcare (KOFIH), the program has trained 1,500 professionals from 30 countries since 2007, offering courses on clinical expertise and health policy. This year marks Egypt’s first participation, focusing on infectious disease response and health policy leadership.

Further strengthening Korea-Egypt biomedical collaboration, Ambassador Kim announced a joint $10 million investment by Korea’s ChoonAng Vaccine Lab (CAVAC) and Egypt’s Global Pharmaceutical Industries (GPI) to establish a poultry vaccine production facility in Al-Sadat City’s Industrial Polaris Area. Set for completion by June, the facility will operate under an OEM model, contributing to Egypt’s export market.

Ambassador Kim also invited Deputy Prime Minister Ghaffar to a reception on April 13 celebrating 30 years of diplomatic relations. The accompanying economic conference will serve as a platform to discuss biomedical and healthcare cooperation, underscoring Egypt’s growing role as a medical hub in the Middle East and Africa.

As part of broader efforts to boost Korea-Egypt healthcare collaboration, KOTRA’s Egypt office is organizing a Korean Biomedical Business Delegation visit in September. The delegation will engage in B2B meetings with Egyptian companies to foster investment and expand healthcare partnerships. Additionally, Ambassador Kim proposed B2G discussions with Egypt’s Ministry of Health, including a policy seminar on key healthcare initiatives.

Deputy Prime Minister Ghaffar welcomed these initiatives and reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Korea. Both sides also explored potential collaboration on health insurance policy development to support Egypt’s Universal Health Coverage goals. DailynewsEgypt

Punjab health minister Dr Balbir Singh on Saturday said a 75-bedded critical care unit will come up at the local civil hospital soon. He said the project is being undertaken at an approximate cost of ₹10 crore.

He made the statement during a surprise visit to take stock of the renovation work at the facility, which began in (month here) last year. This was the health minister’s third visit to the hospital since June 2024.

According to the minister, the lifts at the hospital have been repaired, washrooms are being renovated, operation theaters are being upgraded with latest equipment, flooring has been changed, intensive care unit will be made functional, the roads are being repaired and a facilitation center for patients and attendants is being constructed as part of the renovation work.

“This major upgrade will bring the facility in line with corporate hospitals. We will dedicate this upgraded facility to the public by March,” said the minister.

Dr Singh said an administrative block will be established at the hospital to look after issues of hygiene, infrastructure, sewage and medicines, among others. According to the minister, this move will relieve the ‘burdened’ staff of administrative work.

During the latest visit, the minister once again pointed to eradicating the rodent problem from the mother and child wing as one of the biggest achievements during his tenure.

However, just last month, purported videos showing rats running amok in the same ward did the rounds on social media. HT could not independently verify the authenticity of the videos.

During his visit in June last year, the minister had announced that the intensive care unit (ICU) would be made functional ‘soon’ and took a tour of the ward. In a visit in November, he claimed that the ICU was made functional. However, the ICU continues to remain locked. During Wednesday’s visit, Dr Singh said the ICU will start operations in March, when the renovation work is completed. Hindustan Times