Top 10 Health News in 2015 that Made Headlines
The year 2015 saw some significant health news that took the world by storm. From groundbreaking medical discoveries to advances in technology, here are the top 10 health news stories that made the headlines.
1. Ebola Outbreak Ends in West Africa
After two years of battling the Ebola virus, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the epidemic over in Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia. The outbreak affected more than 28,000 people and caused over 11,000 deaths.
2. Advancements in Cancer Treatment Research
New studies and research have resulted in developments in cancer diagnoses and treatment options. One notable development was the discovery of the immunotherapy drug, Pembrolizumab, which targets cancer cells, avoiding normal cells.
3. Zika Virus Epidemic in Brazil
The Zika virus epidemic, which started in Brazil, quickly spread across South America and other parts of the world, causing alarm due to its potential to cause birth defects. The disease is predominantly spread through mosquitoes.
4. FDA Approves Addyi, “Female Viagra,” for Women with Low Sexual Desire
In 2015, the FDA approved the first drug designed to increase sexual desire in women who experience low libido. The drug, Addyi, works by altering brain chemicals to increase sex drive.
5. Same-Sex Marriage Legalized Nationwide
In 2015, same-sex marriage was legalized across the United States, making it a significant victory for the LGBT community. The decision by the Supreme Court put an end to a contentious debate in a number of states.
6. Cryotherapy Gains Popularity for Injury Treatment and Wellness
Cryotherapy is a treatment using sub-zero temperatures to provide pain relief to individuals suffering from various injuries. The method gained popularity in 2015 as athletes and others sought it out for quick recovery and wellness benefits.
7. Soda Industry Suffers Setback
The soda industry, which has faced criticism for its products’ sugar content, suffered a significant setback when a World Health Organization report linked soda to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues.
8. FDA Regulates E-cigarettes
The FDA announced its decision to regulate electronic cigarettes, also known as e-cigarettes, in 2015. The regulation imposed requirements for safety warnings on e-cigarette packaging, restricting sales to minors, and other regulations.
9. Scientists Develop an Artificial Pancreas
In 2015, researchers created an “artificial pancreas,” which has the potential to become a game-changer for people with type 1 diabetes. The device, which combines a continuous glucose monitor and an insulin pump, automatically adjusts insulin levels to maintain the optimal level of blood sugar.
10. Exercise is Prescribed as Medicine for Patients
Healthcare professionals have been increasingly using exercise as a prescription to treat a range of conditions. In 2015, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) launched an initiative to make exercise “the ultimate vital sign.” This initiative highlights the importance of regular physical activity in maintaining overall health and well-being.
In conclusion, 2015 was a year of significant developments in the healthcare sector. From innovative research to modernized legislation, health news stories captured headlines globally. These groundbreaking developments in the industry have paved the way for a brighter future and improved health outcomes for individuals across the world.
