Global Health Innovations: Excise Tax, AI in Drug Development, and More

The global health landscape witnesses pivotal shifts: Vietnam introduces a cigarette excise tax to curb smoking. The US FDA extends review on a kidney disease drug while AI principles are set for drug development. Meanwhile, obesity treatment markets, healthcare spending, and telehealth form significant focal points.

Vietnam is set to implement an excise tax on cigarettes from 2027, aiming to curb smoking through gradual tax increases. This is part of broader global efforts to reduce tobacco consumption.

In a significant move, US and European regulators have outlined AI principles for drug development, focusing on patient safety. Meanwhile, the US FDA has extended its review of a rare kidney disease medication, impacting stock values.

Telehealth innovations and rising healthcare costs dominate the US health landscape. Ro partners with Amgen to scrutinize obesity treatment accessibility. Simultaneously, healthcare spending in the US has surged past $5 trillion, reflecting increasing insurance enrollments and service utilization.

(With inputs from agencies.)