Delays, Bans, and Failures: Health Sector Updates

The release of U.S. dietary guidelines is postponed to 2026, Malaysia bans most pork imports from Spain due to swine fever, and Novo Nordisk's GLP-1 drug shows no cognitive benefits in Alzheimer's treatment trials. These highlight the challenges and developments in the global health sector.

The release of the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans has been delayed until early 2026. The guidelines, which serve as official recommendations for a healthy diet, were expected sooner but will now follow soon after the start of the year, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Amid health safety concerns, Malaysia has imposed an immediate ban on most pork imports from Spain following an outbreak of African swine fever. This measure excludes retort products, according to Malaysia's Veterinary Services Department, as part of efforts to prevent the spread of the disease.

Novo Nordisk's GLP-1 drug semaglutide failed to demonstrate cognitive benefits in patients with early Alzheimer's disease. Despite hopes for its effectiveness, results from two major trials presented at a medical meeting revealed no slowdown in the progression of Alzheimer's. The Danish company had aimed for at least a 20% reduction in the disease's progression.

(With inputs from agencies.)