As the workshop progressed, participants engaged in in-depth discussions about a variety of AI models, including the intricacies of neural networks and the advancements in deep learning. These conversations provided a historical perspective on the evolution of AI within the healthcare domain, elucidating the capabilities and complexities of various AI models, such as GPT-3 and GPT-4. The dialogue extended to the practical challenges faced when integrating AI solutions into healthcare settings, including technical, regulatory, and ethical hurdles.

A pivotal aspect of the workshop was the practical demonstrations and exploration of use cases for AI in healthcare. Through live demonstrations of AI tools, participants witnessed firsthand the application of AI in image classification, data analysis, and language translation, all within healthcare contexts. These examples underscored the potential of AI to augment clinical decision-making and patient care, offering innovative solutions for diagnosis, treatment optimization, and patient monitoring.

Ethical considerations and data privacy emerged as significant themes throughout the discussions. The workshop underscored the paramount importance of developing secure and ethical AI solutions that prioritize patient privacy and consent. Participants delved into the ethical dilemmas posed by AI in healthcare, debating the balance between innovation and the protection of individual rights. The discussions emphasized the need for robust ethical frameworks and guidelines to navigate the complex landscape of AI in healthcare, ensuring that these technologies are used responsibly and for the greater good.

Interactive group activities further enriched the workshop experience, providing participants with the opportunity to collaboratively explore potential AI applications in healthcare. Through brainstorming sessions, groups identified specific healthcare challenges and conceptualized AI-driven solutions, taking into account factors such as data availability, ethical considerations, and the potential to streamline or enhance existing healthcare processes.

The workshop concluded with forward-looking reflections on the future trajectory of AI in healthcare. Participants discussed the ongoing development of AI technologies and the critical importance of integrating these innovations into healthcare in a manner that is ethical, responsible, and patient-centered. The final discussions highlighted the transformative potential of AI to enhance medical practice, improve patient outcomes, and usher in a new era of efficiency and precision in healthcare.

Overall, the “Generative AI in Healthcare” workshop provided a vital forum for learning, dialogue, and exploration of the vast opportunities and challenges presented by generative AI in the healthcare sector. It fostered a deepened understanding of the technological, ethical, and practical dimensions of AI in healthcare, setting the stage for continued innovation and thoughtful integration of AI technologies into medical practice.

Inaugural session

The 6th annual international conference, hosted by Innovation and Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, Delhi, stands as a beacon of progress in the realm of healthcare innovations. Under the adept guidance of hosts Amna Rakshanda and Tuba Khan, this year’s conference has significantly emphasized the clinical validation of emerging technologies and their transformative impact on healthcare. This focus underscores a pivotal shift towards integrating innovation with practical, clinically validated applications, highlighting the conference’s role in shaping the future of healthcare technology.

The conference brought together an eclectic mix of individuals, including innovators, researchers, funders, and policymakers, fostering an environment ripe for groundbreaking discussions and collaborations. Dr. Tav Pritesh Sethi’s opening remarks set a tone of anticipation for engaging sessions that promised innovative conversations at the unique confluence of diverse stakeholders in healthcare innovation.

Mr. Sachin Gaur’s discourse on the importance of quality standards in healthcare innovations underscored a fundamental aspect of healthcare technology—its need for rigorous evaluation and standardization. His call for ongoing collaborations beyond the conference emphasized the importance of sustained efforts and partnerships in driving the evolution of healthcare innovations.

Dr. Pushpendra Singh’s insights on the conference’s role in fostering interdisciplinary research and development painted a vivid picture of the potential societal impacts of these innovations. His emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches highlighted the need for collaborative efforts spanning various domains of knowledge and expertise to address complex healthcare challenges effectively.

Dr. Malkeet Singh delved into the initiatives of the National Health Authority, such as health technology assessments and digital health missions. His focus on the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of healthcare innovations brought to light the critical balance between innovation and practical applicability in the real-world healthcare setting.

Dr. Upasana Arora’s emphasis on the necessity of clinical validation for technological innovations in healthcare served as a poignant reminder of the paramount importance of patient safety. Her remarks on the irreplaceable value of human touch in patient care resonated deeply, underscoring the need to maintain a balance between technological advancements and the intrinsic human aspect of healthcare.

Ms. Rebecca von Schreeb’s highlight of the 75-year diplomatic relationship between Sweden and India, focusing on collaborative healthcare innovations, showcased the power of international collaborations. The emphasis on digital health projects and training programs illustrated the global dimension of healthcare innovation, where cross-border partnerships can lead to significant advancements and mutual benefits.

The announcement by Dr. Amit Raj of the launch of a Clinical Validation Center through the InnoHealth platform marked a significant milestone for the conference. This initiative is poised to play a crucial role in supporting med-tech startups and validating digital health solutions, providing a much-needed infrastructure to bridge the gap between innovation and clinical application.

Session 1

The session on the integration of innovative technologies in healthcare was a comprehensive forum that brought together experts from diverse backgrounds to share their insights on how technological advancements are revolutionizing the healthcare industry. The aim was to explore ways to enhance patient outcomes and operational efficiency through the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. The discussions underscored the critical role of technology in modernizing healthcare, ensuring patient safety, and improving the delivery of care.

Dr. Vijay Agarwal kicked off the session by addressing the persistent issue of preventable medical errors in healthcare, which poses a significant challenge to patient safety and trust. He emphasized the potential of technology to bridge the existing gaps in the healthcare system, particularly by enhancing patient safety protocols and minimizing errors through automated checks and balances. His insights highlighted the urgent need for healthcare providers to adopt technological solutions that can prevent such errors and foster a safer healthcare environment.

Henrik Udden introduced the audience to Smart Care’s innovative platform, designed specifically for healthcare clinics in India. He detailed how the platform aims to digitize patient records and strengthen data privacy, thereby enhancing the quality of patient care. By integrating various services, including appointment scheduling and prescription management, the solution offers a comprehensive approach to improving healthcare access, especially in rural areas. This initiative represents a significant step towards the digital transformation of healthcare services, aiming to make them more accessible and efficient.

Amarjeet Singh Cheema delved into the challenges and advancements in Hospital Management Information Systems (HMIS). He underscored the crucial role of digitalization in healthcare, focusing on the management of patient records and the streamlining of healthcare delivery. Cheema’s discussion highlighted how HMIS can serve as the backbone of a modern healthcare facility, ensuring that operations are efficient, and patient care is delivered seamlessly.

Vivek Mittal from Yugasa Software Labs introduced the concept of AI chatbots for handling administrative tasks in healthcare settings. He explained how these chatbots are designed to manage patient inquiries, schedule appointments, and perform other routine tasks, thereby enhancing the overall patient experience and operational efficiency. Mittal’s presentation showcased the potential of AI to transform the administrative side of healthcare, freeing up human resources to focus more on patient care.

Dr. Partha Dey shared insights on U4 R-ad’s approach to improving healthcare technology, with a particular focus on developing user-friendly and impactful solutions. He highlighted the importance of such technologies in increasing the productivity of healthcare professionals, especially in specialized fields like radiology and cardiology. Dey’s presentation underscored the need for technology that not only advances healthcare but is also accessible and easy to use for healthcare providers.

Vineet Agarwal from Paras Healthcare discussed the critical role of technology in enhancing clinical outcomes. He emphasized the use of electronic health records (EHR) to facilitate better patient care and monitoring, especially for those managing chronic diseases. Agarwal’s insights pointed to the importance of integrating technology into healthcare practices to improve the quality and continuity of patient care.

The session concluded with a consensus on the pivotal role of technology in healthcare. The experts agreed that while technological advancements are essential for modernizing healthcare, their implementation must be done thoughtfully, with a focus on enhancing patient safety, improving clinical outcomes, and optimizing operational efficiency. The discussions highlighted the necessity for a balanced approach to technology adoption, ensuring that it serves the best interests of patients and healthcare providers alike.

Session 2

The session titled “Clinical Validation of AI” provided an in-depth exploration of the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare, underlining its transformative potential and the imperative for rigorous validation to ensure patient safety and efficacy of care. Dr. Vasanth set the stage with an introduction that emphasized the swift adoption of AI technologies across healthcare sectors, with a special focus on radiology. His discourse underscored the necessity of meticulous validation processes for AI technologies to ascertain their safety and effectiveness in clinical settings.

The panel discussion featured esteemed experts who offered diverse perspectives on the integration of AI in healthcare, its potential benefits, and the challenges that need to be navigated. Dr. Rajiv, the founder of Praar Consulting, delved into the vast potential of AI in healthcare while also bringing attention to the ethical considerations and the need for cautious implementation to avoid unintended consequences. His insights highlighted the dual-edged nature of AI technologies—capable of significant advancements yet requiring thoughtful oversight.

Dr. Harpreet Singh, serving as the Chief Data Officer at ICMR, provided an overview of the initiatives undertaken by ICMR to incorporate AI in medical research. His contribution was pivotal in showcasing the importance of robust data sets that serve as the foundation for developing effective AI solutions. The emphasis on data underscored the role of high-quality, comprehensive datasets in building AI systems that are reliable, accurate, and capable of transforming medical research and practice.

Dr. Devasenathipathy Kandasamy, a professor at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, shared his valuable experiences with the use of AI in educational settings, offering a glimpse into the future of medical education. His insights suggested that AI could significantly enhance the learning experience for medical students, providing them with access to more personalized and efficient learning tools.

Dr. Ambika Seth, an MD in Radiology, discussed the practical applications of AI in cancer screening and diagnosis. Her presentation was a testament to the advancements in AI that have already begun to make real-world impacts, particularly in the detection and treatment of cancer. By showcasing specific examples, Dr. Seth highlighted how AI technologies are being leveraged to improve accuracy in diagnosis and efficiency in patient care.

Throughout the session, key topics were thoroughly examined, including the varied interpretations of clinical validation among data scientists, statisticians, and clinicians. This exploration shed light on the multidisciplinary approach required for the effective validation of AI technologies in healthcare. Furthermore, case studies were presented to demonstrate AI’s capabilities in diagnosing and predicting health conditions with greater accuracy than traditional methods, marking a significant step forward in medical diagnostics.

However, the challenges associated with implementing AI in healthcare were also discussed in detail. These include ethical considerations, data privacy concerns, and the potential for biases within AI algorithms, all of which necessitate careful attention to ensure the responsible use of AI in healthcare settings.

In conclusion, the session acknowledged the remarkable progress and potential of AI in revolutionizing healthcare. It underscored the critical need to address ethical concerns, ensure equitable access to AI-driven healthcare solutions, and foster ongoing research and collaboration among healthcare professionals, technologists, and policymakers. The collective insights from the session emphasized the importance of a balanced, cautious approach to integrating AI into healthcare, ensuring that these technologies enhance patient care without compromising on safety, ethics, or equity.

Session 3

Day two of the session delved into the intricate relationships between healthcare, climate change, and the formidable challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) within the One Health framework. This session assembled an array of esteemed speakers from diverse fields such as public health, policy, research, and innovation funding, each providing valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of these global issues.

Dr. Kamini Walia, a senior scientist at the Indian Council of Medical Research, opened the discussions by shedding light on the global and Indian challenges posed by AMR. She traced the historical development of antibiotics and the subsequent rise of drug-resistant pathogens, underlining AMR as a significant public health threat. Dr. Walia emphasized the need for robust surveillance systems, the importance of antimicrobial stewardship, and the adoption of a One Health approach as crucial strategies in combating AMR.

Following Dr. Walia, Dr. Tavpritesh Sethi from IIIT Delhi took the stage to discuss the interconnectedness between One Health and climate change, advocating for a systems-thinking approach and the application of advanced data science methodologies. He showcased the potential of integrating varied datasets, including those related to climate and health, to better understand and mitigate the health impacts of climate change. Dr. Sethi’s presentation highlighted the importance of a cohesive strategy that considers the environmental determinants of health in addressing climate change challenges.

Dr. W. Selvamurthy contributed to the discussion by focusing on the policy and technological needs to tackle the health impacts of climate change. He argued for a comprehensive approach that transcends traditional disciplinary and sectoral boundaries, aiming to foster resilience against climate-related health challenges. Dr. Selvamurthy’s insights underscored the necessity of an integrated policy framework that aligns with technological advancements to effectively respond to the evolving climate landscape.

Dr. Manjunath Shankar, a senior public health specialist, emphasized the critical role of data in shaping effective health policies and interventions, especially in the realms of AMR and climate change. He championed data-driven methodologies for a nuanced understanding of public health challenges, suggesting that such approaches are indispensable in crafting informed and impactful health policies.

The role of innovation in surmounting healthcare challenges was articulated by Dr. Shirshendu Mukherjee, who elaborated on BIRAC’s strategy for fostering healthcare innovations from concept through to commercialization. He pointed out the significance of solid scientific foundations, clear regulatory pathways, and viable market models in supporting healthcare startups and innovations. Dr. Mukherjee’s presentation provided a glimpse into the ways BIRAC aids in bridging the gap between innovative ideas and their practical application in healthcare.

The session culminated in a vibrant discussion on financing healthcare innovations, with a particular focus on AMR and fostering resilience against climate change. The conversation explored various funding models, including blended finance, aimed at bolstering healthcare startups and innovations. The consensus among the speakers was clear: addressing the complex interplay of healthcare, AMR, and climate change demands a multidisciplinary and multisectoral approach. This approach should seamlessly integrate policy, science, technology, and funding strategies to tackle the challenges at their nexus effectively.

The session underscored the urgent need for collaborative efforts and innovative solutions in the face of global health threats exacerbated by climate change and AMR. The discussions highlighted the critical importance of a united front, integrating knowledge, policies, and resources across sectors to pave the way for a healthier, more resilient future.

Session 4

The session on “Digital Health Services for Non-Communicable Diseases/Preventive Healthcare” served as a critical platform to discuss the integration of technology into healthcare, particularly focusing on the management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and the enhancement of healthcare delivery through digital health and AI innovations. The panel, comprising experts from technology, healthcare, and policy sectors, delved into the multifaceted aspects of digital health, highlighting both its potential and the challenges faced in its implementation.

**Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and Healthcare Innovations**

The session commenced with a significant emphasis on the challenge posed by AMR and the imperative role of innovative solutions in combating this issue. The discussion underscored the importance of surveillance, antimicrobial stewardship, and the adoption of a One Health approach to effectively tackle AMR challenges. This set the stage for a broader exploration of how technology, especially AI, can play a pivotal role in healthcare beyond its conventional applications.

**Digital Health and AI in Healthcare**

The integration of AI and digital technologies in healthcare took center stage, with panelists presenting cutting-edge examples like AI modules for diagnosing diabetic foot ulcers, 3D bioprinting solutions for wound healing, and dynamically self-offloading footwear designed for diabetic foot care. These examples underscored the transformative potential of AI in early disease diagnosis and its capability to alleviate the burden on healthcare providers, showcasing how technological advancements can directly impact patient care and outcomes.

**Limitations and Challenges of Telemedicine**

Despite the optimism surrounding digital health, the panelists did not shy away from addressing the limitations and challenges associated with telemedicine. Issues such as connectivity problems, the limitations in replicating in-person examinations through digital means, and resource constraints were highlighted. Furthermore, the importance of clinical validation and overcoming regulatory challenges in the adoption of AI and digital health technologies were discussed, acknowledging the hurdles in seamlessly integrating these innovations into current healthcare practices.

**Healthcare Ecosystem and Patient-Centric Approaches**

A significant portion of the discussion was dedicated to advocating for a holistic healthcare ecosystem that prioritizes patient outcomes. The panelists emphasized the need for integrating various components of healthcare delivery, including the insurance and pharmaceutical industries, to ensure a patient-centric approach to care. This underscores the importance of a collaborative and integrated healthcare system that leverages technology to meet the needs of patients.

**Education and Data in Healthcare**

The session also highlighted the critical role of education for healthcare providers in the effective use of technology and the necessity of accurate data collection for AI and machine learning applications. Challenges in data processing and the development of specialized AI models tailored to healthcare needs were discussed, stressing the importance of building a robust technological infrastructure that supports the dynamic needs of healthcare delivery.

**Future of Digital Health**

The session concluded with a forward-looking discussion on the future of digital health, emphasizing the critical role of technology in expanding healthcare access to wider populations, especially those in remote areas. The potential of digital health to facilitate early disease detection and enhance healthcare outcomes was particularly noted, painting an optimistic picture of how technology can revolutionize the management and prevention of NCDs.

Overall, the session provided a comprehensive exploration of the current landscape and the future potential of digital health and AI in healthcare. It highlighted the vast opportunities for improving health outcomes through technology while also acknowledging the challenges that need to be addressed to fully realize the potential of digital health in combating NCDs and enhancing preventive healthcare.

Session 5

The session on “Reimagining Healthcare Delivery” provided a deep dive into the transformative role of technology in healthcare, focusing on how innovative solutions can vastly improve healthcare delivery, especially in settings constrained by resources. The convergence of experts from various sectors facilitated a rich discussion on telemedicine, augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), digital health ecosystems, and low-cost medical innovations, all aimed at enhancing patient care and medical education.

**Telemedicine and Remote Consultation**

A significant highlight of the session was the discussion on telemedicine and remote consultations, emphasizing how these platforms have become critical in connecting patients in remote or rural areas with specialists. The innovative use of 5G-enabled ambulances for cardiology solutions marked a noteworthy example, demonstrating how rapid diagnosis and treatment of acute myocardial infarctions could be administered in real-time, saving crucial minutes and lives in the process.

**Augmented Reality (AR) and Mixed Reality (MR) in Medical Training and Treatment**

The utilization of AR and MR technologies in patient consultations and surgical training opened up new vistas for medical education. These technologies allow healthcare professionals to visualize and interact with 3D representations of medical conditions, enhancing their understanding and skills. Moreover, AR and MR have facilitated remote guidance for less experienced doctors performing complex medical procedures, with remote experts providing real-time assistance, thereby elevating the quality of care delivered.

**Digital Health Ecosystems**

The session delved into the integration of various digital health tools, including AI, blockchain, and immersive technologies, within the healthcare system. The emphasis was on the transformative potential of these technologies to bring about substantial improvements in patient care and medical education, suggesting a future where healthcare delivery is both seamless and significantly more effective.

**Low-Cost Medical Innovations**

Addressing the accessibility and affordability of healthcare, the session showcased presentations on low-cost medical devices and solutions. Examples such as a low-cost video laryngoscope and a simple yet effective suturing model underscored the innovation underway to make healthcare more accessible to underserved populations.

**Patient Empowerment and Education**

Technologies aimed at enhancing patient understanding and engagement with their health conditions were discussed, with specific mention of using MR to visualize heart conditions. This approach not only empowers patients with a better understanding of their health issues but also engages them more actively in their treatment plans.

**Simulation Labs for Medical Training**

The potential of simulation labs in providing realistic, hands-on training experiences for medical students and healthcare professionals was explored. The session highlighted how these labs could be established in a cost-effective manner, even in resource-limited settings, to improve the quality of medical training and patient care.

**Impact and Future Directions**

The session underscored the immense potential of technology to revolutionize healthcare delivery, with a special focus on improving access and quality of care in under-resourced areas. It emphasized the importance of fostering collaborations among technology innovators, healthcare professionals, and educational institutions to ensure these innovative solutions are effectively implemented.

The future directions discussed included expanding the reach and capabilities of telemedicine, enhancing AR and MR applications in medical training and treatment, and continuing the development of affordable medical technologies. The session concluded on an optimistic note, envisioning a future where technology reshapes healthcare delivery to be more efficient, accessible, and patient-centered, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for populations worldwide.

Session 6

The session titled “Preparing Indian Healthcare Workers for Digital Services” delved into the nuanced integration of digital technology in healthcare, focusing on the pivotal role of healthcare workers, including nurses, doctors, and allied health professionals, in embracing these advancements. The discussions highlighted the burgeoning importance of digital health in enhancing patient care, particularly in underserved rural areas, and outlined the potential of telemedicine, artificial intelligence (AI), and big data as instrumental in propelling healthcare delivery forward.

**Adoption of Digital Health**

The session underscored the critical importance of digital health in advancing healthcare delivery, emphasizing how tools like telemedicine, AI, and big data are revolutionizing patient care. This emphasis on digital health adoption set the tone for a comprehensive exploration of the implications for healthcare workers in India.

**Challenges of Embracing Technology**

Acknowledging the hurdles in adopting new technologies, particularly among seasoned healthcare professionals, the session recognized the need for targeted training and education. It became clear that to leverage digital tools effectively, healthcare workers must become familiar with these technologies, underscoring the gap between current practices and the potential offered by digital health solutions.

**Human Touch in Digital Healthcare**

Panelists during the session passionately argued that despite the transformative power of technology, the human element in healthcare remains indispensable. They highlighted the irreplaceable nature of empathy, communication, and patient-centered care, positioning technology as a supportive tool rather than a substitute for the human touch.

**Role of Data in Healthcare**

The significance of data collection and analysis emerged as a key theme, with healthcare professionals encouraged to actively engage in data generation to enhance AI and machine learning applications in healthcare. This focus on data underscored its role as a cornerstone of effective, technology-driven healthcare solutions.

**Career Opportunities in Digital Health**

Emerging career paths within healthcare informatics were spotlighted, highlighting the evolving landscape of healthcare careers and the growing need for skills in data handling and technological applications in clinical settings. This discussion pointed towards a future where technological proficiency becomes as crucial as clinical expertise for healthcare workers.

**Cybersecurity and Data Privacy**

With the digitalization of healthcare comes the heightened risk to patient data privacy and security. The session called attention to the imperative need for robust cybersecurity policies within healthcare institutions to safeguard sensitive patient information, emphasizing the collective responsibility of healthcare workers in this endeavor.

**Interdisciplinary Collaboration**

The critical importance of collaboration among healthcare professionals, technologists, and educators was highlighted as essential in developing innovative healthcare solutions and addressing unmet needs. This interdisciplinary approach was presented as a blueprint for the future of healthcare innovation.

**Adaptability and Agility in Healthcare Workers**

Healthcare workers were encouraged to embrace adaptability and agility in response to the rapid technological changes within the healthcare sector. The session identified these attributes as essential for healthcare professionals to remain relevant and effective in a digitally evolving landscape.

**Interactive Session with the Audience**

The session concluded with an engaging interactive Q&A segment, providing a platform for attendees to engage directly with experts, seek advice, and share their experiences and perspectives on the integration of digital health into their professional practices.

In summary, the session on “Preparing Indian Healthcare Workers for Digital Services” painted a comprehensive picture of the digital transformation within healthcare. It concluded that while digital technology offers unprecedented opportunities to enhance healthcare delivery, the core principles of empathy, patient-centered care, and the human connection continue to be of paramount importance. It underscored the need for healthcare workers to equip themselves with new digital skills and knowledge, while also preserving the essence of compassionate care that lies at the heart of the healthcare profession.

Session 7

The session titled “Innovator Pitches and Award” was a highlight of the conference, where various teams showcased their groundbreaking projects aimed at revolutionizing healthcare technology and medical training tools. This platform provided innovators with an opportunity to present their solutions to challenges in healthcare delivery, patient management, and medical education, emphasizing advancements in digital health and medical devices.

**XR-Based Prescription Digital Therapeutics Platform: “PDDX”**

The session kicked off with an engaging presentation on “PDDX,” an XR-based digital therapeutics platform tailored for mental health rehabilitation. Utilizing AI, PDDX creates immersive, interactive virtual environments customized to meet individual patient needs. The platform enables healthcare providers to design personalized therapy courses, enhancing the therapeutic experience through the integration of Microsoft’s cutting-edge technology. The presenter outlined the platform’s significant market potential and provided a detailed overview of budget allocation for its development and testing phases, highlighting the innovation’s potential to transform mental health care.

**Blockchain-Enabled Personal Health Record Mobile Application**

Dr. Amitesh’s presentation introduced a pioneering mobile application that employs blockchain technology to establish a secure, personal health record system. This application aims to revolutionize the way medical data is stored and shared, placing a strong emphasis on data protection and privacy. Dr. Amitesh detailed how the app could seamlessly integrate with India’s Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, facilitating its application in population research and clinical trials. The development of this app, supported by various organizations and lauded in numerous challenges and hackathons, underscored the growing importance of data security in healthcare.

**Non-Invasive, Flexible Real-Time Health Monitoring Device**

Dr. Mishra presented a flexible, non-invasive device designed for real-time health monitoring, focusing on the monitoring of ECG and EEG signals. The device’s innovative use of organic thin film transistors (TFT) technology sets it apart from traditional silicon-based devices, offering significant advantages in terms of flexibility and application. Having successfully tested the prototype, the device was poised for further development and enhancements to reduce noise, marking a significant step forward in patient monitoring technology.

**Laparoscopic Simulatory Model**

The session concluded with a presentation by Mohammad Kashif Khan and his team, who showcased a cost-effective laparoscopic simulatory model for medical training. Aimed particularly at students and medical professionals in remote areas, the model uses everyday materials and mobile phone cameras to simulate laparoscopic procedures, offering a practical, hands-on learning experience. Having already received accolades for their innovation, the team expressed plans to further refine the model, adding more features to enhance its educational value.

The “Innovator Pitches and Award” session was a testament to the vibrant potential of innovation in healthcare, featuring projects that spanned digital therapeutics, blockchain-based health records, real-time monitoring devices, and medical training tools. Each presentation not only showcased the technical ingenuity of the projects but also emphasized their shared commitment to improving healthcare accessibility, patient care, and medical education. This session underscored the critical role of innovation in healthcare, highlighting the necessity for ongoing investment in technologies that promise to redefine healthcare delivery for the better.

The post Clinical Validation of Emerging Technologies appeared first on InnoHEALTH magazine.

In 2024, the world must not overlook eight critical crises: the escalating humanitarian situation in Gaza, the ongoing war in Ukraine, destruction in Syria from earthquakes, rampant gang violence in Haiti, Africa’s multifaceted crises including diseases and displacement, worsening conditions in Myanmar, extreme weather events like wildfires and floods, and the devastating impact of earthquakes globally. The EU remains committed to providing substantial humanitarian aid, emphasizing the urgent need for global attention and support across these diverse emergencies, which collectively challenge the international community to respond effectively to the growing demands for assistance and protection.

In 2023, the EU and its Member States retained their position as one of the largest global humanitarian donors. Over the past 12 months the international community has focused on the rising number of people at risk around the world due to multiple converging emergencies: from health crises and natural hazards to conflicts like those in Ukraine and Gaza.

Disasters such as the earthquake in Haiti this June or forced displacements such as the refugee crisis following conflict in Myanmar has continued to pose significant challenges for humanitarian aid – and emphasises the need to broaden humanitarian attention to other parts of the world. According to the latest UN figures, nearly 300 million people in 72 countries will require humanitarian assistance and protection in 2024. In the face of this challenge, the European Union remains resolute in its commitment to providing aid to people in need wherever they are.

This year, eight pivotal global crises demand close attention.

Palestine: forced displacement and famine risk

The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip has sharply deteriorated in recent months. This is due to the intensification of hostilities after the terrorist attack on Israel on 7 October. The full-scale military operation, along with the siege on Gaza has taken the already dire humanitarian situation there to catastrophic levels.

Over 2 million people so far have been internally displaced due to intensified air strikes, enduring a situation of high insecurity and critical shortages of vital resources such as water, food, medicine, electricity, and fuel. The dramatically high death toll among civilians, the limited amount of humanitarian supplies and restricted humanitarian access makes this one of the crises that require urgent and continued assistance.

Since 2000, the EU has mobilised more than €1.08 billion to enhance the humanitarian response for Palestinians and has already earmarked €125 million in humanitarian aid for this crisis for 2024.

Ukraine: lives in danger and infrastructure destroyed

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 heavy fighting has continued to endanger the lives of Ukrainian civilians, and cause severe damage to the country’s infrastructure: from housing to heating, water and electricity supplies.

Internal displacement is also causing significant challenges, with citizens being evacuated away from the front lines to new, unfamiliar surroundings. Most of these people have already seen their homes destroyed by shelling and may have experienced various wartime traumas including armed violence, family separation, looting or eviction.

With the war showing no sign of stopping, Ukraine’s civilian population continues to endure a humanitarian catastrophe that is reaching new levels of suffering with each passing day. The EU Civil Protection Mechanism is currently coordinating its largest ever operation in support of Ukraine. Since 2022 the EU has mobilised €785 million in humanitarian programs to help Ukrainians in need, and will continue to finance humanitarian aid efforts within the region.

Syria: Destruction and disease

The earthquakes of February 2023 have brought destruction to Syria and increased the humanitarian needs of a country already hit by displacement, epidemics and a pandemic. The number of people in need has risen considerably over the past 12 months, reaching 15.3 million so far. The situation is especially bad in Northwest Syria, where the earthquake has deepened food insecurities, diseases and stable sources of water.

As a leading global donor of humanitarian assistance, the EU has mobilised more than €30 billion in humanitarian, development, economic and stabilisation assistance over the past 12 years to support Syrians both inside the country and across the region.

Through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, 16 European countries have delivered support to humanitarian partners on the ground via Lebanon and Türkiye and have provided civilians with the essential supplies they need. Today, the crisis in Syria continues with close to 5.2 million registered Syrian refugees across the region.

Haiti: Expanding gang violence in an increasingly fragile country

In 2024, humanitarian needs in Haiti continue to increase amidst unprecedented levels of gang violence. According to UN figures, at least 3,960 people have been killed, 1,432 injured and 2,951 kidnapped in gang related violence this year alone. 3,056 cases of rape were reported from January to October 2023, an increase of 49% compared to 2022. More than 200,000 people have been forced to flee their homes

An announced mission led by Kenya to restore security in the country has not yet been deployed, while criminal gangs’ activities are expanding into urban and rural areas. Today more than 5 million Haitians need humanitarian assistance, and over 4.3 million are suffering acute food insecurity. The number of children suffering from severe malnutrition in 2023 increased by 30% compared to 2022, with more than 115,600 cases in 2023.

This fragile context has forced millions of Haitian migrants to leave their country, making the perilous journey through the jungle of the Darién Gap between Panama and Colombia in a bid to reach the United States. Later, some are affected by forced repatriation. Since 1994 the EU has allocated €490 million in humanitarian aid. Last year the EU gave €18.5 million to address the needs of Haiti’s most vulnerable communities.

Africa: diseases, disasters and displacement crises

The continent of Africa remains high on the world media’s watchlist as the source of some of the worst crises of recent years. In Sudan, the outbreak of the conflict in April 2023 has resulted in one of the biggest displacement crises globally, with over 6 million people so far internally displaced due to the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). As of 2024, half of the population in Sudan – close to 25 million people – are in need of humanitarian aid. This is just one example of the unprecedented humanitarian needs in the region, and is affecting neighbouring countries including Chad, South Sudan, Ethiopia and Egypt.

In areas like the Greater Horn of Africa, more than 49 million people are experiencing acute food insecurity and over 19 million people are displaced by conflict, drought, and flooding. Diseases also pose a threat to people across the region, including cholera outbreaks in four countries, measles and malaria outbreaks in seven countries, and dengue fever in Ethiopia.

The EU allocated €600,000 in order to contribute to tackle potential cholera outbreaks in South Sudan in 2023. €1 million was also allocated to Ethiopia to to help fight a cholera epidemic.

Myanmar: Escalating conflict increases humanitarian needs

Since the military takeover in 2021, the humanitarian situation in Myanmar has sadly deteriorated. Last autumn saw an escalation of the conflict, forcing more than 600,000 people to flee their homes in less than 3 months and reaching a total of 2.6 million across the country. Approximately a third of the country’s population, 18.6 million people, are currently in need of humanitarian assistance, and some 25% of the population are facing hunger.

Some 600,000 stateless Rohingya remain in Myanmar, where they lack fundamental rights. Meanwhile, 1 million Rohingya refugees who fled persecution live in neighbouring Bangladesh. For this community conditions remain dire, with serious security concerns and no clear prospect for return to their home in Myanmar.

In 2023, the EU allocated about €32.8 million to address the immediate needs of the most vulnerable civilians in Myanmar. In addition, last year the EU provided over €38.5 million in humanitarian aid, disaster preparedness and emergency funding within Bangladesh. Within this sum, over €28 million contributed to supporting Rohingya refugees.

As conditions in the refugee camps worsen, more and more Rohingya refugees embark on dangerous sea journeys to try and reach neighbouring countries like Indonesia and Malaysia. The EU has so far allocated €3 million to respond to the increasing protection needs of refugees throughout the region.

Extreme weather events: wildfires and floods

Extreme weather events such as wildfires and floods are more becoming more frequent and extreme across the world due to the worsening climate crisis. On 6 August 2023, the EU Civil Protection Mechanism broke a grim record when for the first time it was activated twice within the same day, in response to flooding across two thirds of Slovenia and wildfires in Cyprus. 2023’s challenging wildfire season included the largest wildfire on record in the EU, burning over 76,000 hectares of land in Evros, Greece.

In response the EU Civil Protection Mechanism deployed 27 firefighting airplanes, 1 helicopter, and around 2000 personnel. This massive effort was a testament to the solidarity of the EU member states; with Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Croatia, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain, and Sweden all contributing to the firefighting and relief efforts. This past year’s extreme wildfire season only highlights the increasing complexity of natural hazards and the simultaneity of extreme weather events across Europe and beyond.

Earthquakes

2023 saw multiple earthquakes around the world. On 6 February 2023 Türkiye and Syria suffered a series of catastrophic earthquakes, resulting in thousands of deaths, extensive destruction and a worsening situation for many of the already vulnerable refugees in southeast Türkiye. This was one of the strongest earthquakes in the region in more than 100 years and the biggest earthquake of 2023.

In September a 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck Morocco, leaving many civilians injured or homeless. Then in October, a series of earthquakes in Afghanistan left thousands dead or injured. In response the EU allocated over €2.5 million in funding for humanitarian partners on the ground, as well as delivering vital supplies through 3 Humanitarian Air Bridge flights.

Finally, in November 2023, following a devastating earthquake in Nepal, the EU approved a €2 million aid package to bring relief to affected communities.

The post 8 crises the world must not look away from in 2024 appeared first on InnoHEALTH magazine.

Amazon Pharmacy leverages generative AI to enhance its service by speeding up prescription processing, improving customer support, ensuring accurate medication stocking, and providing transparent pricing. Utilizing Amazon Bedrock and SageMaker, the technology helps interpret prescriptions, predict demand, and offer real-time pricing options without requiring insurance details. This AI-driven approach has notably increased order processing speed by 90% and reduced human errors. Moreover, it supports pharmacy staff with structured data and assists customers in making informed decisions, showcasing a transformative impact on healthcare delivery and customer experience.

Amazon Pharmacy is using generative artificial intelligence (generative AI) to fill prescriptions more quickly and accurately, make customer service faster and more helpful, and ensure the right quantities of medications are stocked for customers. Amazon Pharmacy is also working on AI applications that provide more transparent pricing on prescription medications, enabling customers to shop for the best price.

“Today, Amazon is using generative AI to make the pharmacy experience even better for our clinical teams and customers,” said Alexandre Alves, senior principal engineer at Amazon Pharmacy. “We saw an opportunity to rethink information flows that was both exciting and transformational.”

Amazon Pharmacy is a full-service pharmacy in the Amazon.com store. Customers can use Amazon Pharmacy to purchase medications prescribed by their doctor and have them conveniently delivered to their door. Prime members enjoy free, two-day delivery and many ways to save, including the Prime prescription savings benefit and RxPass, which offers access to unlimited eligible prescription medications for only $5 per month. All Amazon Pharmacy customers have 24/7 access to a pharmacist to discuss questions about their medications.

In the past year, Amazon Pharmacy has doubled the number of customers it serves, and AI is helping the team to efficiently scale. To power their generative AI capabilities, Alves and his team used multiple, pre-trained models from Amazon Bedrock and Amazon SageMaker. “By building our solutions on Amazon Web Services, our teams were able to move faster and focus on creating the best experience for customers,” said Alves.

Improving processing speeds to get medications to customers faster

Alves has spent his entire career working as a computer scientist, using data and deep learning models to help streamline supply chains and predict customer demand. Now applying his expertise to health care, he said there is some truth to the cliche that doctors have bad handwriting—although today, in most cases, prescriptions are typewritten and arrive via an electronic scribe service used by clinical teams.

However, digital prescriptions can still contain confusing or inconsistent language. “The data does not have a standard structure. For example, within a field labeled “directions,” we might find phrases such as “take by mouth,” or “take orally,” he said. “By making these directions more structured, we can scale our operations, fill prescriptions more quickly and efficiently, and importantly, reduce human error.”

Amazon solved this challenge by running the original “unstructured” data through a generative AI model. That model uses a process called “named entity recognition” to create a structure for the text, using categories such as “dose” and “frequency.” From there, it helps Amazon Pharmacy clinical staff fill prescriptions and provide clear instructions for patients.

Every prescription is still reviewed by a pharmacist because provider guidance can be incorrect for reasons that AI cannot detect. Sometimes the prescriber will put “volume” in the field meant for “strength,” for example. But by combining a generative AI approach with the expertise of a pharmacist, Amazon is able to increase order processing speed by 90%, and, most importantly, reduce the rate of human error.

Stocking the right medications

Drawing on his supply chain work, Alves and his team also use AI and machine learning (ML) to forecast demand. That helps Amazon stock the right medications in each location, ready to be dispensed when a prescription comes in.

“Generative AI helps us synthesize data to experiment with different stocking scenarios. This can help us improve our ability to predict the medications we need to have available in each location,” Alves said. “Similarly, we have various canisters that we use to dispense medications, and AI can help us better determine which one is best for each medication.”

Helping customers find the best price

Amazon Pharmacy is using ML and generative AI with Large Language Models (LLMs) to offer real-time insurance estimates on prescription medications, without the customer needing to enter their insurance details. Customers can shop for the best price on medications by viewing a list of pricing options on Amazon Pharmacy’s site, this includes estimated insurance pricing as well as ways to save with the Prime prescription savings benefit, RxPass or automatic coupons.

“Seeing the price of medications directly on a pharmacy’s website or mobile app is surprisingly novel,” Alves said. “LLMs can create immediate value for customers by surfacing up-to-date pricing, which enables better decision-making.”

Offering customers better support

Generative AI can help the Amazon Pharmacy clinical and customer care team answer questions faster. It can review internal documentation pages and knowledge bases and then summarize them in a useful and clinically appropriate way. Amazon also augmented the process with guardrails that apply context to each question.

“Of course, in pharmacy, accuracy and safety are extremely important. We use an additional model to validate the answer,” Alves said. “This model is independent from the others and is trained by feedback from our staff. Our clinical and customer service representatives review everything before they speak with the customer.”

Delivering medications more efficiently

Alves said that there’s always a balance between doing a task immediately and waiting until the work can be done in a batch. “By improving our ability to ingest data and interpret context, generative AI can help us improve these predictions and batching decisions, and help customers get their prescriptions more quickly,” he said. “If you don’t need a refill for a month, that request can probably wait until we can batch it. If you need a medication urgently, we’re going to bump it to the front of the line.”

Alves added, “We are constantly discovering new uses for generative AI. We’re excited about the potential to not only further improve the customer experience with Amazon Pharmacy, but also to significantly enhance the roles of our pharmacy staff, helping to create better health care outcomes.”

The post 5 ways Amazon Pharmacy uses AI to make getting medications more convenient for customers appeared first on InnoHEALTH magazine.

The WHO has released guidelines for ethical use of Large Multi-Modal Models (LMMs) in healthcare, emphasizing risk evaluation, collaborative development, and regulation. Highlighting applications in diagnosis, patient care, and research, it calls for transparency, equity, and ethical governance to mitigate risks like bias and misinformation, urging global cooperation for effective AI regulation.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued comprehensive guidelines for the ethical use and governance of Large Multi-Modal Models (LMM) in healthcare. These advanced generative AI technologies, such as ChatGPT, Bard, and Bert, have rapidly transformed healthcare delivery and medical research by processing diverse data inputs like text, videos, and images. Despite their potential benefits, WHO emphasizes the critical need to carefully evaluate the risks associated with LMM adoption.

Applications of LMMs in Healthcare

The WHO document identifies five key applications of LMMs in healthcare, including diagnosis and clinical care, patient-guided use, administrative tasks, medical education, and scientific research. However, risks such as the generation of false or biased statements and issues related to data quality and bias are noted.

Recommendations and Concerns

WHO urges a collaborative approach involving governments, technology companies, healthcare providers, patients, and civil society in all stages of LMM development. Key recommendations include investing in public infrastructure, using regulations to ensure ethical obligations, and introducing mandatory post-release audits. The organization also stresses the importance of global cooperation to effectively regulate AI technologies.

Ethical Principles and Governance

WHO’s guidance builds upon six core principles: protecting autonomy, promoting human well-being, ensuring transparency, fostering responsibility, ensuring inclusiveness and equity, and promoting responsive and sustainable AI. The guidelines highlight the necessity of ethical considerations and governance in AI for health, addressing concerns such as biased data, misleading information, and potential misuse of LMMs.

The post WHO Releases Guidelines for Multi-Modal Generative AI in Healthcare appeared first on InnoHEALTH magazine.

Ahead of India’s interim budget for 2024, industry experts call for increased government investment in healthcare, research and development, and pharmaceutical innovation. Emphasizing the need for regulatory reforms, enhanced healthcare funding, and support for the ‘Make in India’ initiative, leaders from pharma and healthcare sectors, including Vibcare Pharma, Healthium Medtech, Beagle Lasers, and Apollo Hospitals, highlight the opportunity to advance India’s role as a global healthcare hub. They advocate for collaborative efforts, local manufacturing support, and digital healthcare expansion to improve accessibility and quality of care across the country, aiming to propel the industry’s growth from $50 billion to $450 billion by 2047.

The Government of India needs to allocate more funds for research and development, healthcare funding, and innovation in pharmaceuticals in health sectors, the industry experts expect from the interim budget 2024 that is scheduled to be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1. 

“The budget’s emphasis on research and development offers us an exceptional chance to innovate. We hope to see increased government backing in areas vital to us, such as regulatory reforms and more healthcare funding,” said Vibcare Pharma CEO Siddharth Singhal. 

He said government support is crucial for the pharma and healthcare sector to address the dynamic healthcare needs of India.  “By focusing on advanced R&D, we aim to introduce better and more cost-effective medicines. This budget’s healthcare focus aligns with our mission, promising growth opportunities and reinforcing our dedication to providing accessible healthcare solutions,” the pharma industry expert said. 

“The forthcoming budget presents a transformative opportunity for the pharmaceutical industry to excel in innovation, sustainability, and global competitiveness, further strengthening India’s position as a pharmacy of the world,” Singhal added.  The industry’s current valuation is approximately $50 billion, with growth targets of $120 billion to $130 billion by 2030 and $450 billion by 2047, as per government estimates. 

India continues to enhance its position and seize the opportunity to become a global hub for the medtech sector,the industry is poised to witness continued expansion, growth, investment opportunities, and technological innovation during FY 2024-25, said Healthium Medtech CEO and MD Anish Bafna. 

He called for a collaborative action plan involving public-private partnerships between the government, medical device companies, hospitals, manufacturers and suppliers, healthcare providers, and insurance players, which continues to be the need of the hour.  In addition, conducive policies will back the industry, encourage the spur in local manufacturing, and allow new medical devices to reach patients faster, benefiting patients and healthcare providers, Bafna said. 

The Healthium Medtech CEO also stated that the healthcare industry will look forward collectively to a phased-out approach on custom duties, facilitation of single window clearances for local manufacturers, and increase in export incentives under RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Export Products Scheme) along with broadening the scopes of schemes like PLI. 

On the other hand, Beagle Lasers founder Dr Joy Shah emphasized that the major focus of the budget 2024  may be to strengthen the availability of quality healthcare to even rural areas of India.

“Import may be discouraged. We are expecting some changes in the GST tariff and services covered under healthcare. There may be a strengthening of import regulations to reduce the influx of imported medical equipment,” he said.  “This budget may create a conducive environment for local manufacturers to thrive and contribute to the “Make in India” initiative, boost employment opportunities, and enhance the quality of healthcare services,” Dr Shah added. 

Meanwhile, Dr. Harshit Jain, Founder & Global CEO of Doceree said: “We anticipate government’s continued commitment towards the initiative and look forward to a heightened focus on the robust implementation of this scheme in the upcoming fiscal year, fostering transparency in the healthcare ecosystem and accelerating advancements in treatment outcomes. We also expect a forward-looking approach from the government, emphasizing on allocating funds to enhance technology-powered innovative healthcare models tailored for India’s diverse population.”

“As a pioneer in the digital healthcare messaging industry, Doceree reaffirms its unwavering commitment to providing steadfast support to the government and its initiative and stands ready to contribute to the ongoing journey to fortify the digitalization of the healthcare economy, leveraging its expertise to drive positive transformation and innovation in the sector,” he added.

Union Budget 2024-25 is scheduled for February 1, with general elections looming on the horizon, this budget promises to be a delicate balancing act between fiscal prudence and populist measures. VarcoLeg Care CEO Veeky Ganguly stated the healthcare industry is anticipating policy measures that simplify the adoption of health technologies. “Streamlined regulatory processes and incentives for healthcare providers to embrace digital solutions would not only benefit our business but also contribute to a more patient-centric healthcare approach.”

“We’re optimistic about a commitment to skill development in the healthcare sector. A well-trained workforce capable of harnessing the potential of emerging technologies is crucial for our collective progress,” he said.  “We hope to see increased funding to boost the manufacturing of medical equipment domestically, fostering the ‘Make in India’ initiative and supporting local manufacturers,” said Vikram Thaploo, CEO- Telehealth, Apollo Hospitals Enterprises.

He said that Apollo Hospitals’ Telehealth is looking forward to potential changes in GST tariffs and services covered under healthcare, expecting measures to strengthen import regulations and create an environment conducive to the growth of indigenous manufacturers. 

“We expect that the budget will prioritize investments in public health infrastructure, primary healthcare facilities, and essential medicines, while promoting telemedicine and digital healthcare solutions. We urge the government to consider expanding Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes to cover the development of supporting hardware for advanced digital technologies like Generative AI,” he added.

The post Budget 2024: Healthcare industry expects more funds for R&D, innovation in pharma, and public-private collaboration appeared first on InnoHEALTH magazine.

In 2023, Bangladesh faced its deadliest dengue outbreak, with over 321,000 cases and 1,705 deaths, significantly up from the previous year. The surge in cases overwhelmed healthcare facilities, with children under ten, especially those under five, being highly vulnerable due to underdeveloped immune systems. The outbreak’s severity is attributed to climate change, leading to higher mosquito populations. Despite efforts to combat the disease, including repurposing hospitals and increasing medical supplies, the spread of dengue has reached unprecedented levels, affecting all districts and placing additional burdens on the urban poor.

In a small, dimly lit control room at the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) in Dhaka, data on Bangladesh’s dengue outbreak flashes across multiple computer screens. Government analysts here have been busy collecting and monitoring the impact of the disease across the country since cases were first reported last April.

In 2023, the total reported cases of dengue numbered 321,179, with 1,705 deaths recorded, a massive jump from the year before, when 62,000 people were known to have had the virus, and 281 died. It was the highest number of annual deaths caused by the mosquito-transmitted disease ever recorded in Bangladesh.

The deaths last year included at least 113 children. According to Save the Children, the majority of these deaths were of children under the age of 10, with 38 deaths among those under five. “Children make up around 30% of all dengue cases in Bangladesh and are particularly vulnerable to the virus because of underdeveloped immune systems,” says Dr Shamim Jahan, Bangladesh director of Save the Children. “Those under five are particularly at risk from developing severe symptoms, such as dehydration and shock.”

Over the past few months, the surge in cases has pushed Bangladesh’s health system to the limit, with hospital corridors overflowing with patients as wards run out of beds. “It’s been the deadliest outbreak of dengue the country has ever seen,” says Dr Mohammad Shafiul Alam, a scientist at the ICDDR,B health research centre in Dhaka. The high death toll has continued into the new year. As of Wednesday, the outbreak had affected 756 people so far this month, resulting in 10 deaths, compared with 424 cases and three deaths this time last year.

However, the official figures may not give a true indication of the scale of the outbreak. “These reported figures are likely an underestimation of the actual burden,” says Alam. “Numerous healthcare facilities in Bangladesh operate beyond the reporting framework. This underscores the likelihood that the actual figures could be several times higher.”

Dengue cases have risen dramatically around the world, with 70% of them occurring in Asia. Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 3.9 billion people – or half of the world’s population – are at risk of infection. Half a million cases were reported in 2000, compared with 4.2 million in 2022: nearly an eight-fold increase.

The increasing frequency of extreme weather events is fuelling the spread of the disease into new locations and extending dengue seasons in countries where the disease is already present. In Bangladesh, unusually high rainfall, combined with hotter temperatures and high humidity, has resulted in an increased mosquito population throughout the country. “Climate change is the critical link to the increase in numbers that we’re seeing,” says Alam.

In Mirpur, a district of north-east Dhaka, Masuma Begum watches over her nine-month-old daughter Sohana, who has contracted dengue and lies asleep beneath a fan. “She no longer has the strength to get up and play,” says Begum. “It’s been over four weeks and she still hasn’t got any better.” Outside their house, an open drain and yard overgrown with weeds create a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes.

“We can’t afford to admit her to hospital so I’ve been doing whatever I can to protect her at home,” says an exhausted Begum, who has not left her daughter’s side since she fell ill. “I’ve been using repellent and mosquito spray to keep the bloodsuckers at bay – but they still manage to get inside.”

Bangladesh has seen regular outbreaks of dengue over the past two decades. Yet the recent outbreak has been surprising – not only did a surge in cases start earlier than usual (typically cases start during the June-October monsoon), but the disease has also spread beyond its previous concentration in Dhaka and Chattogram (or Chittagong, as it is better known). “In 2022, Dhaka city accounted for 63% of cases, while in 2023, 66% were reported outside Dhaka,” says Alam. “Now dengue is being reported from all 64 districts of the country.”

In response, the DGHS has repurposed six hospitals in Dhaka assigned for Covid-19 patients to manage the dengue epidemic, and increased the supply of intravenous saline and other medication across the country. For many of Bangladesh’s urban poor, the cost of contracting dengue has added to the burdens on their households.

The post ‘Deadliest outbreak ever seen’: climate crisis fuels Bangladesh’s worst dengue epidemic appeared first on InnoHEALTH magazine.