In recent health developments, former US president Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has already spread to his bones. Prostate cancer, which originates in the small gland responsible for semen production, is the fourth most common cancer globally and the second among men. According to the UK-based World Cancer Research Fund International, there were approximately 1.47 million new cases in 2022. Countries with the highest incidences include the United States—accounting for 15.7 percent—and China with 9.1 percent.
In the United States, prostate cancer ranks as the most diagnosed cancer for men after skin cancer and is the second leading cause of cancer-related death after lung cancer. Fortunately, most men diagnosed with the disease tend to survive with proper treatment. Biden’s diagnosis highlights the ongoing significance of early detection and treatment in managing this disease. Read more about prostate cancer and Biden’s health update here.
Separately, in a tragic incident in Bangkok, a construction worker fell into a 19-meter-deep pile hole at an underground metro tunnel site near Soi Lan Luang 6. The victim, identified as Dao from Sisaket Province, was buried under soil, and rescue efforts are ongoing. The accident occurred during the dismantling of old piles as part of the Orange Line construction project. Officials believe recent heavy rains contributed to soil slippage, which caused the collapse. Rescue teams continue to work around the clock, and the area remains cordoned off to ensure safety and facilitate the recovery mission.
Meanwhile, at the international level, the 78th World Health Assembly commenced in Geneva with the theme “One World for Health.” WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stressed the importance of this gathering for global health policy, particularly the discussion of a new pandemic agreement designed to strengthen international preparedness and response to future health emergencies. The assembly also reviewed the 2024 results and discussed critical issues such as antimicrobial resistance, health emergencies, polio eradication, and climate change impacts on health.
China’s delegation emphasized its active role in global health cooperation and addressed political sensitivities surrounding Taiwan’s participation in the assembly. The event continues through May 27, with decisions expected to shape future international health strategies and policies.
These updates underscore the importance of vigilance in health management, safety protocols in construction, and the ongoing dialogue among nations to improve global health resilience. Stay tuned for more details and insights on these pressing issues.
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