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    The South African Pharmaceutical Exhibition (SAPHEX) is scheduled for March 5-6, 2025, at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

    SAPHEX stands as the premier event for professionals in South Africa's pharmaceutical manufacturing industry. The exhibition brings together key players, decision-makers, and suppliers, showcasing the latest innovations in APIs, excipients, packaging, and machinery. Attendees can expect to network, explore new advancements, and engage in discussions pivotal to the growth of the African pharmaceutical market.


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    Latest Medical Articles

    Unusual bleeding during and after pregnancy

    When should pregnant women be concerned? Awareness of the dangers associated with abnormal bleeding during pregnancy and after childbirth can be lifesaving for both women and their babies.

    Dr. Mzuvele Archwell Hlabisa, an obstetrician and gynaecologist at Netcare Kingsway Hospital, emphasizes that while many people are unaware that over a third of pregnant women may experience bleeding for various reasons, it is crucial to determine the exact cause.

    "Although some bleeding is normal in the postpartum period, excessive bleeding can be life-threatening. It is often difficult for women to discern if their bleeding is normal or not, but a good rule of thumb is to have any bleeding during pregnancy checked by a healthcare professional," says Dr. Hlabisa.

    He notes that around 35% of women experience bleeding in the first trimester. "As the pregnancy progresses, the likelihood of bleeding decreases, so it’s reassuring when women reach the mid-trimester, from 13 to 28 weeks of gestation."

    Bleeding could indicate a miscarriage or a threatened miscarriage, and severe pain with bleeding could be related to placental abruption, a serious condition where the placenta prematurely separates from the womb. These conditions require immediate medical assessment.

    Spotting In early pregnancy, some women may experience spotting, known as implantation bleeding, when the embryo implants in the uterine wall. ...Read full article

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    Global Medical News

    Bridging Gaps in Blood Cancer Care through Stem Cell Awareness
    As Mandela Day 2025 approaches, DKMS Africa is calling on South Africans—especially those concerned about health and medical inequality—to turn their focus toward a pressing issue in the country’s healthcare system: the limited access to stem cell transplants for people with blood cancer.

    According to DKMS Africa’s Head of Community Engagement and Communications, Palesa Mokomele, every 67 minutes, at least one person in South Africa is diagnosed with a form of blood cancer. “This year, we want those 67 minutes to mean something more—for that time to represent a pathway to survival,” she explained.
    Mokomele highlighted that although over 125,000 South Africans are registered as potential stem cell donors, there is a significant lack of diversity in the donor pool. This has made it harder for black, coloured, and Asian patients to find matching donors. “Even when a match is found, the journey is far from over,” she said. “Donors must remain committed to completing the donation process if called upon.”

    The issue is not only about donor availability. According to Mokomele, nearly 80% of South Africans depend on public healthcare services, where stem cell transplant options are severely restricted. While the government typically covers transplant procedures, families are still responsible for funding critical early-stage requirements such as donor matching and tissue typing—costs that can be financially overwhelming.

    “This is where each of us can make a difference,” Mokomele said. “Mandela once reminded us that making a difference in others’ lives defines the true value of our own. That spirit of service is needed now more than ever.”

    To support patients, DKMS Africa encourages South Africans to take two meaningful actions this Mandela Day:

    Step 1: Register as a donor at www.dkms-africa.org. It takes five minutes to complete a health questionnaire, after which eligible donors between 17 and 55 will receive a free cheek swab kit by post.

    Step 2: Use the remaining 62 minutes to create awareness. Host a donor drive, raise funds to support donor registrations, or spread the word online. Every bit of effort increases the chances for patients in need.

    Two young South Africans currently in need of matching donors are Thando (17) from Gauteng and Amahle (15) from KwaZulu-Natal. Thando was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia after experiencing abdominal pain and fatigue. Amahle, once eager to begin Grade 10, is now battling Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia following months of misdiagnosis and weakening health.

    Their stories are reminders of how urgent this issue is and why medical communities, students, and everyday citizens must play their part in driving change.

    To learn more, visit www.dkms-africa.org.
    10 July 2025

    How the Extracellular Matrix May Hold the Key to Slowing Heart Aging
    A recent study is shedding light on an overlooked factor in heart aging — the extracellular matrix (ECM). Scientists believe that targeting this critical network of molecules could lead to future treatments that slow or even reverse age-related heart decline.

    The ECM is often described as the structural scaffold surrounding cells. It plays essential roles in providing support, enabling communication between cells, preventing tissues from fusing, and assisting with wound repair. While most aging research focuses on how cells deteriorate over time, this study explores how changes in the ECM itself impact the heart as it ages.

    Researchers explain that with age, the ECM becomes stiffer and less flexible. This stiffening is partly caused by the activation of cardiac fibroblasts, which leads to fibrosis — a buildup of connective tissue. While fibrosis is beneficial in repairing damaged tissue, excessive fibrosis in aging hearts reduces their ability to pump blood effectively.

    To better understand how ECM changes affect cardiac aging, researchers developed an advanced model called DECIPHER (DECellularized In Situ Polyacrylamide Hydrogel-ECM hybrid). This innovative system combines lab-grown materials with rat heart tissue, allowing scientists to study how changes in ECM stiffness and cellular signaling interact.

    According to study author Avery Rui Sun, this model enables researchers to separately control tissue stiffness and biochemical signals. This had not been possible in previous research using native tissue. By doing so, they observed that maintaining youthful biochemical signals had a stronger influence on heart health than ECM stiffness alone.

    Lead researcher Jennifer Young highlights that this finding suggests the surrounding biochemical environment is a crucial factor in preventing heart cell dysfunction associated with aging.

    Cardiologist Dr. Nishant Kalra, who was not involved in the study, notes that molecules present in younger heart tissue can prevent the activation of fibrosis-related cells even when the tissue remains physically stiff. This insight offers new directions for therapies aimed at modifying the ECM to support healthier aging hearts.

    While these findings are promising, experts stress that this research is still at an early stage and based on animal models. Human studies are needed to confirm whether the same outcomes apply.

    In the meantime, there are proven strategies to support heart health as we age. Dr. Kalra recommends engaging in regular aerobic exercise, following heart-healthy diets such as the Mediterranean or DASH diets, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, getting 7–9 hours of quality sleep, and managing stress through practices like meditation or outdoor activities.

    Family physician Dr. Daniel Atkinson also advises limiting alcohol to no more than 14 units per week and avoiding binge drinking. He explains that excessive alcohol raises blood pressure and weakens the heart muscle, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

    Overall, while future therapies may target the ECM, adopting these healthy lifestyle habits remains the most effective way to protect the heart as we age.
    30 June 2025

    Community-Led Solutions Strengthen SAs Fight against TB
    Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a major public health crisis in South Africa, claiming 148 lives daily. Despite being preventable and curable, TB remains a challenge due to stigma, limited awareness, and barriers in accessing healthcare.

    Health experts emphasise that defeating TB requires more than clinic-based care — it demands a collaborative, community-driven approach. According to public health specialists, communities are often the first line of defence in raising awareness, promoting testing, and supporting treatment.

    In high-burden areas like Delft and Elsies River in the Western Cape, community members are stepping up. With support from the organisation TB Proof, individuals with personal experiences of TB, or a commitment to health advocacy, are leading efforts to bridge the gap between national policies and local action.

    These initiatives align with SAs National Strategic Plan for HIV, TB, and STIs (2023–2028), which promotes testing for close contacts of TB patients, people living with HIV, and those previously treated for TB — regardless of symptoms. Successful implementation depends heavily on local leadership.

    Launched in August 2023, the TB Champions programme trains community leaders in TB education, communication, and advocacy. Since January 2025, TB Champions have conducted campaigns in schools, clinics, workplaces, and faith-based spaces. Their work includes hosting testing drives and sharing information about TBs airborne transmission and the importance of early diagnosis.

    According to TB Champion Tracey Visagie, her efforts focus on helping people living with HIV access TB testing and treatment, ensuring they stay in care. Daniel du Plessis, another Champion, highlights that his role involves speaking publicly to encourage community testing. Meanwhile, TB survivor Bravo Thompson uses his story to challenge the stigma, explaining that open conversations help others seek care without fear.

    In addition to TB Champions, health committees play a vital role. These volunteer-led groups organise local campaigns, raise concerns with clinic management, and advocate for better services. However, experts note that lack of formal support and funding limits their full potential.

    Research consistently shows that community-led health initiatives improve service access, patient satisfaction, and treatment outcomes. Public health advocates argue that investing in community leaders is a cost-effective strategy that enhances TB prevention and care.

    Ultimately, addressing TB requires more than medicine — it demands empowering communities to be central partners in the fight to save lives.
    30 June 2025

    The Surprising Health Benefits of Carrot and Ginger Juice This Winter
    As South Africa faces a wave of bitterly cold weather, health experts are highlighting the impact winter has on the body — from dry skin and fatigue to weakened immunity and poor digestion.
    According to nutritionist statements, while warm meals and teas are comforting, incorporating nutrient-dense beverages like carrot and ginger juice can offer powerful health support during winter.
    This bright orange drink is more than a wellness trend; it delivers essential nutrients that can strengthen the body against seasonal challenges.
    Boosts Immunity.
    With cold and flu cases typically rising in winter, keeping the immune system strong is vital. According to health experts, carrots are high in beta-carotene and vitamin C, both of which are essential for supporting immune cell function. Ginger adds antiviral and antibacterial compounds that help the body fight infections.
    Reduces Inflammation
    Colder temperatures often aggravate joint pain and stiffness. Research highlights that ginger contains active compounds like gingerols, which naturally reduce inflammation. Carrots contribute additional antioxidants, supporting joint comfort and reducing overall inflammatory stress.
    Supports Digestion
    Winter diets tend to be heavier, often slowing down digestion. According to digestive health specialists, ginger stimulates digestive enzymes, helping reduce bloating and indigestion. Carrots provide dietary fibre, especially when juiced with pulp, promoting gut health and regularity.
    Natural Energy Booster
    Low energy is a common complaint during grey winter days. Nutrition experts suggest that the natural sugars in carrots offer a sustained energy lift without sudden crashes, while ginger improves circulation, enhancing oxygen delivery and alertness.
    Protects and Nourishes Skin
    Exposure to cold air and indoor heating can cause skin dryness and irritation. Carrots are rich in vitamin A and antioxidants that help repair skin and maintain moisture. Ginger further supports skin health by enhancing blood flow, ensuring vital nutrients reach skin cells.
    Antioxidant Powerhouse
    Both carrots and ginger are packed with antioxidants that defend against cellular damage caused by stress, pollution, and seasonal strain. These compounds are crucial for maintaining overall health and preventing illness.
    According to wellness practitioners, adding a glass of carrot and ginger juice to your daily routine this winter could offer wide-ranging benefits — from stronger immunity to better skin and digestion.
    30 June 2025

    Biovac Partners with Biological E to Boost Pneumonia Vaccine Production in Africa
    Cape Town-based biopharmaceutical company Biovac has entered into a significant transfer agreement with India’s Biological E to manufacture and distribute a pneumonia vaccine across Africa. The vaccine, known as PCV14, is a 14-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine that offers broad serotype coverage. Clinical trials have demonstrated that PCV14 is non-inferior to Prevenar 13 for all shared serotypes, marking a promising advancement in vaccine efficacy.

    Currently licensed in India, Biological E’s PCV14 is undergoing prequalification by the World Health Organization (WHO), with plans to make it available to UNICEF and Gavi markets shortly thereafter. The technology transfer to Biovac is expected to take three years, including the necessary regulatory approvals.

    Pneumococcal infections are a major health concern, being a leading cause of pneumonia, bacterial meningitis, and sepsis. According to WHO estimates, pneumococcal infections were responsible for 1.6 million child deaths worldwide in 2005. Although this number has decreased over the years, the need for newer and more effective vaccines remains critical.

    Dr. Morena Makhoana, CEO of Biovac, highlighted the company’s commitment to expanding its operations beyond South Africa. The partnership with Biological E, which has previously focused on vaccines for tetanus and measles rubella, aims to address the pressing need for a higher valency pneumococcal vaccine in Africa. This collaboration aligns with the Africa CDC’s goal of ensuring that 60% of vaccines are manufactured on the continent by 2040, promoting sustainable vaccine production and self-sufficiency.

    The partnership also supports Gavi’s vision for enhancing vaccine manufacturing capabilities in Africa, ensuring that the continent can provide locally produced vaccines to its children. Dr. Sania Nishtar, CEO of Gavi, expressed support for the technology transfer agreement, viewing it as a crucial step towards increasing the supply of PCV vaccines and fostering sustainable manufacturing practices in Africa.

    This collaboration between Biovac and Biological E represents a significant advancement in the fight against pneumonia and underscores the importance of local vaccine production in improving public health outcomes across the continent. As the partnership progresses, it is expected to play a vital role in enhancing vaccine access and self-sufficiency in Africa.
    27 June 2025

    Advancements in mRNA Vaccine Technology Transfer in South Africa
    Three years after the World Health Organization (WHO) initiated Africa's first mRNA vaccine technology transfer programme, significant progress is being made. Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, this initiative aimed to address the inequity in vaccine access, as wealthier nations secured the majority of available vaccines, leaving low and middle-income countries, including South Africa, in a precarious position.

    Established in 2021 by the WHO and the Medicines Patent Pool (MPP), the programme is set to revolutionize the vaccine and therapeutic landscape across Africa. Through the hub at Afrigen Biologics in Cape Town, foundational mRNA technology has been successfully transferred to 15 partner organizations.

    Currently, African nations import 90% of their medicines and 99% of their vaccines. This technology transfer is a crucial step towards empowering these countries to produce their own medicines for both pandemics and routine public health needs.

    The progress was celebrated at a recent event held alongside the G20 Health Working Group in Johannesburg. Biovac, a biopharmaceutical company based in Cape Town, was the first partner to receive this technology. The company is now exploring mRNA-based vaccines for HIV and TB, two diseases that continue to impact communities in South Africa significantly. The technology also has the potential to facilitate the development of various treatments.

    According to Professor Petro Terblanche, CEO of Afrigen, technology transfer is merely a starting point. He emphasized that developing a sustainable pipeline of products is essential for translating this technology into tangible public health benefits.

    Dr. Michelle Mulder, CEO of the South African Medical Research Council, highlighted the critical role of research and development (R&D) in this initiative. She stated that ongoing improvements to mRNA candidates are necessary to create more effective, cost-efficient, and stable vaccines. This R&D focus aims to address prevalent diseases like HIV and TB.

    Mulder also pointed out the need for a continuous pipeline of new vaccines to keep manufacturing facilities operational, even outside of pandemic situations.

    Charles Gore, Executive Director of MPP, noted that while the foundations for equitable mRNA access are in place, sustained political commitment is crucial to ensure that this opportunity is not lost. He called for the courage to build on existing investments to maximize the impact of this initiative.
    24 June 2025
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