News & Updates

AZD7442 (tixagevimab–cilgavimab) prevents COVID-19 in high-risk populations

Though most COVID-19 safe management measures have been lifted in Singapore, the pandemic continues to adversely impact the lives of immunocompromised patients at high risk of severe infection. 

“It has been an absolute misery for these patients and their families,” said Dr Leong Hoe Nam, Infectious Disease Specialist at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Singapore. “The virus is an unseen enemy that may strike unexpectedly. The strike may kill, or if not, maim the individual. Patients isolate themselves for fear of getting infected while their family members fear bringing the illness back home.” 

Immunocompromised patients are those with suppressed immunity resulting from health conditions, including solid organ and haematological cancers, end-stage kidney and liver disease, organ or bone marrow transplants, and immune-mediated inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, or those on active treatment with immunosuppressive medications. [Expert Rev Vaccines 2022;1-17; BMJ 2021;374:n2098]

Geriatric impairments hurt QoL, physical function in older cancer patients

Among older patients with cancer, geriatric impairments appear to have a strong negative impact on quality of life (QoL) and physical function (PF), reports a recent study. However, radiotherapy (RT) appears to be well-tolerated in this group.

Connected health interventions tied to better wellbeing in cancer patients

Cancer patients treated and managed through connected health technologies appear to have better wellbeing and quality of life (QoL), reports a recent meta-analysis.

Original New Drug Application Approvals by US FDA (16 - 30 Sep 2022)

New drug applications approved by US FDA as of 16-30 Sep 2022 which includes New Molecular Entities (NMEs) and new biologics. It does not include Tentative Approvals. Supplemental approvals may have occurred since the original approval date.