Indian pharmaceutical giant Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories has introduced Versavo (bevacizumab), a biosimilar of Roche’s cancer drug Avastin, in the United Kingdom. Versavo, indicated for various cancers, including colorectal and breast cancer, was initially launched in India in 2019. Its expansion into the UK market highlights Dr. Reddy’s commitment to providing global access to high-quality biosimilar products. Jayanth Sridhar, global head of biologics at Dr. Reddy’s, emphasized the significance of the launch, signaling the company's focus on oncology and meeting the unmet needs of patients worldwide.

In a new study, vaping is found to cause DNA changes akin to smoking, posing potential health risks. The research, published in Cancer Research, reveals epigenetic alterations in cells exposed to e-cigarette vapor, highlighting the need for further investigation into vaping's long-term effects. While not conclusive of cancer risk equivalence, the findings underscore potential health impacts. Experts urge caution, emphasizing the study's limitations and the necessity for more comprehensive data analysis to determine vaping's comparative risk profile. The study prompts a broader discussion on e-cigarette use and its potential health implications.

A shigellosis outbreak has hit attendees of Victoria's Esoteric Festival, causing gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhoea and fever. The Department of Health confirms 230 reported cases. Shigellosis spreads through infected faeces and poses severe risks, especially to young children and the elderly. Festivalgoers are urged to get tested immediately if experiencing symptoms. Health officials warn of potential spread as patrons return home. Those working in sensitive sectors like food handling or healthcare should refrain from work until advised. The festival, held from March 8th to 12th in Donald, Victoria, prompts a call for vigilance and precautionary measures.

The FDA greenlights Rezdiffra (resmetirom) as the first drug to tackle nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a severe liver condition affecting millions in the U.S. NASH results from liver inflammation due to excess fat, often leading to scarring and dysfunction. Rezdiffra targets liver damage directly, offering hope alongside diet and exercise for NASH patients with notable scarring. Roughly 6-8 million Americans suffer from moderate to advanced NASH. The drug's mechanism involves reducing liver fat accumulation, albeit with common side effects like diarrhea and nausea. However, caution is advised for patients with cirrhosis, emphasizing vigilance for worsening liver function.

Eight children and an adult died on Pemba Island, Zanzibar, after consuming sea turtle meat, a local delicacy causing periodic chelonitoxism, a fatal food poisoning. The mother of one deceased child also succumbed. Seventy-eight others were hospitalized. Laboratory tests confirmed the cause. Zanzibar authorities, responding to a similar incident in November 2021, dispatched a disaster management team, advising against turtle consumption.

The Tata Institute in Mumbai has unveiled a groundbreaking cancer treatment tablet priced at just Rs 100. Named 'R+Cu', the tablet claims to prevent cancer recurrence and reduce treatment side effects by 50%. Pending approval from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, it could hit the market by June-July. With pro-oxidant properties containing resveratrol and copper, the tablet aims to inhibit cancer cell movement and destroy chromatin particles. This development holds promise for affordable and effective cancer treatment, potentially revolutionizing oncology practices.

Japan's birth rate hits record low for the 8th year, dropping by over 50% in 2023. Concerns grow as marriages fall below 500,000 for the first time in 90 years. Prime Minister Kishida calls it the "gravest crisis" facing the country. Chief Cabinet Secretary Hayashi warns Japan has limited time to reverse the trend. The government unveils measures to support child-bearing households. Population is estimated to decline by 30% by 2070, with 40% aged 65 or older.

Deadly bird flu detected for the first time in mainland Antarctica, posing a threat to penguin colonies. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza virus found in dead skua seabirds near Argentine base. H5N1 strain confirmed, with potential to spread rapidly among densely packed penguin colonies. Argentine and Spanish scientists collaborate on testing, confirming virus presence. Concerns raised about virus impact on Antarctic bird populations.

A study conducted by scientists at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences reveals alarming findings regarding microplastic contamination in human placenta samples. Published in Toxicological Sciences, the study detected microplastics in all 62 placenta samples tested, with concentrations varying from 6.5 to 790 micrograms per gram of tissue. Lead author Matthew Campen expressed concerns about the potential health impacts of rising microplastic levels, linking them to inflammatory bowel disease, colon cancer, and declining sperm counts. The study underscores the urgent need to address plastic pollution and its adverse effects on human health.

Several Indian states ban candy floss due to concerns over cancer-causing Rhodamine-B. Tamil Nadu and Puducherry have already prohibited the popular treat after lab tests confirmed the presence of the harmful substance. Rhodamine-B, linked to cancer, is used as an artificial coloring agent. Health authorities label the candy as 'substandard' and 'unsafe.' Other states like Andhra Pradesh and Delhi are contemplating similar bans to safeguard public health. Rhodamine-B is banned in European and Californian food products due to its associated health risks, including liver dysfunction and cancer.