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Neural Therapeutics - How do we prevent people getting addicted to opioids?

Neural Therapeutics Inc.

Neural Therapeutics CEO Ian Campbell is answering some of the questions raised by Scientific Advisor Professor David Nutt's presentation on the potentially revolutionary untapped effects of psychedelic medicine. Today's questions asks: "The opioid crisis has touched every sector of society and shows no sign of stopping. How do we prevent more people from becoming addicted?" He emphasised that contrary to common concerns, the substances developed by the company have not shown addictive properties in clinical trials. Campbell highlighted that there is no evidence of withdrawal symptoms in patients. Moreover, ongoing scientific work supports the effectiveness of these substances in treating individuals with substance use disorders. The presentation focused on what Professor Nutt describes as the utility of psychedelic compounds and their potential to transform the treatment of mental illness. To watch the full presentation, click here: https://www.proactiveinvestors.co.uk/companies/news/1035785/professor-david-nutt-presents-his-insights-into-psychedelic-medicine-neural-therapeutics-1035785.html Neural Therapeutics is a drug-discovery company focusing on plant-based active substances with the goal of delivering beneficial, over-the-counter dietary supplements and psychedelic-based therapeutic medicines to treat serious mental ailments where no significant treatment is available today. Contact Details Proactive United States +1 347-449-0879 action@proactiveinvestors.com

May 20, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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4 Stocks to Watch in the Booming Regenerative Medicine Market

BSEM, ZBH, SNN, MDXG

Regenerative medicine is revolutionizing healthcare. It encompasses a range of cutting-edge therapies aimed at repairing or replacing damaged tissues and organs, offering tangible solutions rather than mere symptom management. With a global market projected to surge from USD 29.42 billion in 2023 to an estimated USD 154.05 billion by 2033, regenerative medicine presents significant investment opportunities. This burgeoning field focuses on utilizing tissue engineering, cellular therapies, and medical devices to harness the body's natural healing processes, paving the way for unprecedented medical advancements. By addressing the root causes of ailments and enabling the regeneration of tissues and organs, regenerative medicine holds immense promise for transforming patient outcomes and reshaping the healthcare landscape. Investors should pay close attention to the developments in regenerative medicine, as they represent not only a paradigm shift in medical treatment but also a lucrative avenue for growth. Here are four companies in the market segment for your watchlist. SNN Smith+Nephew (NYSE: SNN) is a prominent medical technology company specializing in the repair, regeneration, and replacement of soft and hard tissue. With a focus on innovative solutions, Smith+Nephew is positioned as a key player in the regenerative therapy segment. In its recent trading update for the first quarter ended March 30, 2024, Smith+Nephew reported a 2.9% increase in revenue, reaching $1,386 million. This growth highlights the company's resilience and market presence. It is driven by strong performance in orthopaedics, sports medicine, and ENT. Orthopaedics revenue saw a 4.4% increase on an underlying basis, with notable growth in key segments such as hip and knee implants outside the US. Similarly, strong performance in sports medicine joint repair and the growth of the REGENETEN product line drove an underlying 5.5% increase in revenue for sports medicine and ENT. Despite some softness in Advanced Wound Management, Smith+Nephew maintains its full-year 2024 guidance, expecting underlying revenue growth in the range of 5.0% to 6.0%. This guidance reflects the company's confidence in its ability to capitalize on market opportunities and drive sustainable growth. Furthermore, a recent randomized controlled trial (RCT) validated Smith+Nephew's REGENETEN Bioinductive Implant by showing a noteworthy 68% decrease in full-thickness rotator cuff re-tear rates. With over 100,000 procedures completed globally since its introduction, the REGENETEN Bioinductive Implant is poised to contribute significantly to Smith+Nephew's growth in the regenerative therapy segment. As investors seek potential opportunities in the regenerative therapy sector, Smith+Nephew (NYSE: SNN) stands out as a company with innovative solutions and strong growth prospects, making it a stock worth considering. Major global medical technology provider Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: ZBH) continues to demonstrate robust financial performance, reporting impressive first-quarter results. The company, headquartered in Warsaw, Indiana, posted a net income of $172.4 million for the quarter, translating to earnings of 84 cents per share. After adjusting for amortization costs and restructuring expenses, earnings stood at $1.94 per share, surpassing expectations set by Wall Street analysts. In terms of revenue, Zimmer Biomet exceeded forecasts, generating $1.89 billion in revenue for the period. This figure outpaced the expectations of analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research, who had projected revenue of $1.87 billion. These results underscore the company's strong market position and its ability to deliver value to shareholders. Last year, in 2023, Zimmer Biomet Holdings Inc. agreed to acquire Embody Inc. for $155 million at closing, with an additional $120 million in contingent milestone payments over the next three years. The deal includes Embody’s entire portfolio of collagen-based regenerative solutions for soft tissue injuries. This strategic move further solidifies Zimmer Biomet's presence in the regenerative medicine sector. Autologous cellular therapies are at the forefront of regenerative medicine. Such treatment options include blood and bone marrow aspirates and concentrations. Zimmer Biomet offers Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) products to produce PRP, which can be mixed with autograft or allograft materials. Their BioCUE Blood and Bone Marrow Aspirate (bBMA) Concentration System and Plasmax Plasma Concentration System are notable contributions to this field. Moreover, Zimmer Biomet's cartilage repair solutions can address osteochondral deficiencies in multiple anatomic locations. These solutions provide early interventions that can limit the need for further surgical intervention and potentially divert the progression of these lesions. The philosophy defining Zimmer Biomet's hard tissue products is based on the complex processes involved in tissue repair. Their extensive portfolio includes matrix/scaffold, signaling proteins, and tissue-forming cells that work together to form new tissue, particularly bone. This approach acknowledges the limitations of traditional autograft procedures and offers innovative synthetic bone graft substitutes to overcome these challenges. In addition to their involvement in hard tissue products, Zimmer Biomet offers soft tissue management products suitable for various practices, including orthopedics, plastic surgery, and general surgery. This comprehensive portfolio underscores Zimmer Biomet's commitment to advancing regenerative medicine and highlights the company's recognition of the potential future in this area. Moving forward, Zimmer Biomet's continued focus on innovation and strategic acquisitions positions it as a key player in the evolving landscape of regenerative medicine. With a strong foundation in orthopedic devices and an expanding portfolio in regenerative solutions, Zimmer Biomet is well-positioned to drive growth and deliver value to investors in the years to come. MDXG MiMedx Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: MDXG ) stands as a pioneer and leader in the regenerative medicine sector, dedicated to helping humans heal. With over a decade of experience in managing chronic and hard-to-heal wounds, MiMedx offers a leading portfolio of products tailored for applications in wound care, burns, and surgical sectors of healthcare. The company's vision is to emerge as the foremost global provider of healing solutions through relentless innovation aimed at restoring quality of life. MiMedx specializes in developing and distributing placental tissue allografts across various healthcare sectors. Leveraging its patented and proprietary PURION process, MiMedx processes human placental tissues to produce allografts that retain the tissue's natural biological properties and regulatory proteins. This processing method, which combines aseptic techniques with terminal sterilization, ensures the preservation of the tissue's integrity and efficacy. In the first quarter of 2024, MiMedx achieved significant milestones, demonstrating its continued growth and success. With net sales reaching $85 million, reflecting an impressive 18% growth over the prior year period, the company showcased its strong market presence and growing demand for its products. Additionally, MiMedx reported a GAAP net income from continuing operations of $9 million with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 22%, highlighting its solid financial performance and operational efficiency. Furthermore, MiMedx expanded its product portfolio through a distribution agreement with Regenity Biosciences, introducing a 510(k)-cleared collagen particulate xenograft product set to launch later in the year. This move aligns with MiMedx's commitment to enhancing its offerings and meeting the evolving needs of its customers in the wound and surgical markets. Under the leadership of Joseph H. Capper, MiMedx's Chief Executive Officer, the company continues to demonstrate clinical strength, commercial effectiveness, and disciplined expense management, positioning itself for sustained growth and long-term success. With a focus on relentless innovation and diversification of its portfolio, MiMedx remains poised to deliver innovative healing solutions and drive shareholder value in the dynamic healthcare landscape. For investors with a greater appetite for risk, BioStem Technologies Inc. (OTC: BSEM) represents a compelling opportunity. BSEM is focused on developing, manufacturing, and commercializing placental-derived biologics for regenerative therapies. Its proprietary BioRetain processing method is central to its innovation, preserving crucial growth factors and tissue structure, which differentiates its products in the advanced wound care market. In the first quarter of 2024, BSEM reported revenue of $41.9 million, a significant increase from $0.6 million in the same period the previous year. This growth is primarily driven by the market acceptance of AmnioWrap2, a placental-derived allograft for various wound applications, according to CEO Jason Matuszewski. The company's gross margin was 95%, up from 82% in the first quarter of 2023, reflecting the impact of increased sales and an agreement with Venture Medical. Additionally, BioStem achieved net income for the first time in its history, marking a notable milestone. BSEM has also enhanced its operational capabilities. The company has engaged McCoy Clinical Consulting to lead pivotal clinical trials for Diabetic Foot Ulcer (DFU) and Venous Leg Ulcer (VLU) treatments. Moreover, BioStem completed a comprehensive two-year audit, a step towards listing on a national stock exchange, which enhances financial transparency and governance. A significant development for BioStem is the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s (USPTO) prioritized examination of its patent for the BioRetain processing technology. This patent is essential for protecting BioStem’s method of processing human amniotic tissue, a key differentiator in the regenerative medicine market. The company's intellectual property portfolio supports its commitment to innovation and its potential to impact the wound care market, which is projected to grow steadily. BioStem has expanded its product offerings and market reach with products like AmnioWrap2, VENDAJE, and VENDAJE AC, processed at its FDA-registered and AATB-accredited facility in Pompano Beach, Florida. These products have gained market traction, supported by BioStem’s quality management system and adherence to current Good Tissue Practices (cGTP) and current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP). Operational highlights include acquiring assets from Auxocell Laboratories, launching AmnioWrap2 nationwide with Venture Medical LLC, and securing commercialization agreements for Avenova Allograft with NovaBay. The company’s products have also been listed with the U.S. Department of Defense and Veterans Administration, broadening its market presence. On May 15, Zachs Small Cap Research published a comprehensive research report on BioStem Technologies Inc. (OTC: BSEM) highlighting their recent financial results and issuing a valuation of 23.25 per share. Disclaimers: RazorPitch Inc. "RazorPitch" is not operated by a licensed broker, a dealer, or a registered investment adviser. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investment advice. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides investors a safe harbor in regard to forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, goals, assumptions, or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact may be forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on expectations, estimates, and projections at the time the statements are made that involve a number of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those presently anticipated. Forward looking statements in this action may be identified through use of words such as projects, foresee, expects, will, anticipates, estimates, believes, understands, or that by statements indicating certain actions & quote; may, could, or might occur. Understand there is no guarantee past performance will be indicative of future results. Investing in micro-cap and growth securities is highly speculative and carries an extremely high degree of risk. It is possible that an investors investment may be lost or impaired due to the speculative nature of the companies profiled. RazorPitch has been retained by BioStem Technologies to assist in the production and distribution of this content. RazorPitch is responsible for the production and distribution of this content. It should be expressly understood that under no circumstances does any information published herein represent a recommendation to buy or sell a security. This content is for informational purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer by RazorPitch or any third party service provider to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments. All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in this article constitutes professional and/or financial advice, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. RazorPitch is not a fiduciary by virtue of any persons use of or access to this content. Contact Details Mark McKelvie +1 585-301-7700 Mark@RazorPitch.com Company Website http://razorpitch.com

May 20, 2024 06:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Immunic chief medical officer discusses promising treatments to mark World IBD Day

Immunic Inc

Immunic Inc (NASDAQ:IMUX) chief medical officer Dr Andreas Muehler discusses Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion to mark World IBD Day on May 19. Muehler explained that IBD encompasses Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, characterised by an immune response triggered by the interaction between gut bacteria and the immune system, leading to bowel wall damage and ulcerations. This condition affects 1-2% of the population, presenting significant social challenges due to symptoms like diarrhoea and abdominal pain, which can limit social and professional activities. Currently, IBD is managed with immunosuppressive drugs, which, while effective, increase susceptibility to infections and other autoimmune diseases and often show immunosuppression. Dr Muehler highlighted the need for treatments that do not suppress the immune system. Immunic Inc. has been exploring new therapies, including a drug that strengthens the bowel barrier. A recent phase two trial with Vidofludimus calcium (IMU-838) in ulcerative colitis showed promising results in maintaining remission. This drug, primarily tested in multiple sclerosis, is part of a class not previously tested in large IBD trials. Another promising drug, IMU-856, aims to regenerate the bowel barrier, preventing harmful interactions between gut bacteria and the immune system without immunosuppression. This drug has shown positive results in animal experiments as well as in healthy volunteers and celiac disease trials. Immunic currently evaluates potential testing of IMU-856 in IBD. Contact Details Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

May 17, 2024 02:35 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Tackling Childhood Peanut Allergies

YourUpdateTV

Right now, more children in the U.S. are living with peanut allergy than ever before, and approximately 75% will not outgrow their allergy. Recently, Pediatric Allergist, Dr. Douglas Mack, and Sarah Korieshi, the Mother of a peanut allergic child, participated in a nationwide satellite media tour to discuss the impact on children and innovative new treatment options that can help. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/5uKicnsGHv8 The repercussions of this condition are profound, extending beyond mere dietary restrictions to impacting a child's daily life, social interactions, and overall well-being. The constant fear of accidental exposure and the potential for severe allergic reactions can also be extremely difficult for families to navigate. The increase in prevalence over the past 20 years has driven a growing need for effective treatment options to manage the condition. For doctors, that means treatments that reduces the likelihood of an allergic reaction in the case of accidental exposure, and treatments that work within the lifestyle of the child and family. The good news is that recent years have brought about a spate of new innovations in the allergy space. For example, there is currently an ongoing clinical trial evaluating Viaskin TM Peanut, a patch containing the equivalent of one one-thousandth of one peanut kernel. The patch is applied each day to a child’s back in order to build up a tolerance to peanut protein, making it less likely that a child will have a reaction after an accidental exposure. For parents, a treatment like this would be life-changing, as a non-invasive option – something that can be incorporated into our busy lives, without any restrictions to regular activities. Having access to a treatment option that allows children and parents to participate in typical activities for a child, such as birthday parties, sports activities, attending camp, or even school, would give parents peace of mind and children the care-free life they deserve. For more information, visit vitesseallergystudy.com About Dr. Douglas Mack Dr. Mack is co-author of clinical guidelines on the prevention of allergy, oral immunotherapy and anaphylaxis and focuses on oral immunotherapy for food at Halton Pediatric Allergy clinic. Dr. Douglas Mack has been a pediatric allergy, asthma, and immunology specialist for over 10 years. Dr. Mack is an assistant clinical professor in the Department of Pediatrics at McMaster University and is an affiliate of Sick Kids. He sits on the board of directors at the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. He is co-author of clinical guidelines on the prevention of allergy, oral immunotherapy, and anaphylaxis. Dr. Mack is co-founder of Halton Pediatric Allergy clinic where his focus is on oral immunotherapy for food. About Sarah Korieshi Sarah learned that her daughter Zara had a deadly peanut allergy when she was just 9 months old. The first thing she thought was, not only how life-threatening eating a food can be, but also living with the constant fear of what may happen every time she eats. There has always been constant fear with how unpredictable a reaction can be, and the anxiety that comes with solely relying on avoidance really takes a toll. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

May 17, 2024 10:09 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Neural Therapeutics CEO Ian Campbell discusses potential CSE listing and future plans

Neural Therapeutics Inc.

Neural Therapeutics CEO Ian Campbell discusses the company's conditional approval to list on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSC) in an interview with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion. Campbell explained that the CSE listing is a strategic move, enabling broader market participation and capitalisation on its advancements. The company aims to raise $500,000, primarily for research and development efforts and securing intellectual property, including two patents. Campbell highlighted the growing interest in psychedelic treatments, noting the significant investment in this sector and the 44% rise of the Psychedelic Invest Index this year. He emphasised the mental health crisis and the inadequacy of outdated therapies, positioning psychedelics as a promising and disruptive alternative. Neural Therapeutics specialises in mescaline extracted from the San Pedro cactus, a substance with a long history of safe use. Campbell noted mescaline's unique properties, such as its longer duration in the body, which supports neuroplasticity and potential treatment for mental illnesses like addiction without causing hallucinations. The CSE listing is expected to enhance the company's visibility, attract investment, and accelerate drug development. Contact Details Proactive United States +1 347-449-0879 action@proactiveinvestors.com

May 17, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Arecor Therapeutics reports strong 2023 results and outlines expanding product pipeline

Arecor Therapeutics PLC

Arecor Therapeutics PLC (AIM:AREC)C CEO Sarah Howell discusses the company's 2023 performance and future plans with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion. Howell highlighted that Arecor has seen significant growth, particularly with the launch of products incorporating its Arestat technology under a global licensing agreement, generating royalties. Six new technology partnerships were established with major pharma and biotech companies, offering potential for future licensing and market development. Arecor focuses on diabetes and obesity, with clinical results for their proprietary product, AT278, expected soon. This highly concentrated, rapid-acting insulin aims to provide better glucose control for type 2 diabetics with high BMI and support the next generation of insulin pump devices. Tetris Pharma, a subsidiary, has shown strong growth under new leadership, with product sales tripling to £2.9 million in 2023. Its lead product, glucagon, has contributed significantly to this growth. Howell also noted the importance of technology partnerships and licensing programs. Arecor has entered into three active license programs and is progressing well with its partners. One notable partnership is with Medtronic to develop a concentrated, stable insulin for intra-peritoneal delivery, aiming to reduce hospital visits for patients with brittle diabetes. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

May 17, 2024 03:20 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Immunic highlights IMU-856 gastrointestinal candidate to mark International Celiac Day

Immunic Inc

Immunic Inc (NASDAQ:IMUX) chief scientific officer Hella Kohlhof joined Proactive's Stephen Gunnion on International Celiac Day, in the middle of Celiac Disease Awareness Month, to discuss the disease and the company’s developments in treating it. Kohlhof explained that celiac disease is a severe autoimmune disorder affecting around 1% of the global population, predominantly females. Unlike gluten intolerance, celiac disease involves an immune reaction to gluten, leading to gut inflammation and destruction. The only current treatment is a gluten-free diet, which is not effective for all patients. Kohlhof elaborated on the disease's scientific background, highlighting its genetic association with specific HLA genotypes (HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8). She explained that celiac disease is triggered by the immune system's reaction to deaminated gluten peptides, causing inflammation and damage to the gut lining. Immunic is developing IMU-856, an epigenetic modulator, to treat gastrointestinal diseases like celiac disease. IMU-856 enhances gut regeneration and strengthens the gut barrier, improving patients' conditions. Kohlhof detailed the successful completion of a Phase 1b study in celiac patients, which demonstrated the drug’s safety, good pharmacokinetic properties, and positive effects on symptoms, biomarkers, gut histology, and nutrient uptake during a gluten challenge. The study confirmed the potential of IMU-856 in treating celiac disease, and further exploration of its mode of action is ongoing. Contact Details Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

May 16, 2024 05:54 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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The HERizon Disposable Hysteroscope aims to redefine industry standards

Minerva Surgical, Inc.

Minerva Surgical announces the immediate and exclusive distribution of a new disposable hysteroscope that will be displayed at the Annual Clinical & Scientific Meeting of American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists in San Francisco, CA. The company plans to soon rebrand the new disposable hysteroscope as HER izon, and their goal is to redefine the standards of efficiency and accessibility in gynecological care. “This marks a significant milestone in the company’s mission to address the needs of gynecologists and further advance Women’s Health,” states Minerva Surgical Chief Medical Officer Eugene Skalnyi, M.D. “ HER izon embodies versatility as a hysteroscope, facilitating an array of procedures both in the operating room and office settings. It is one of a few technologies that our team plans to launch to better serve the evolving patterns in Gynecology.” The HER izon Disposable Hysteroscope is a cutting-edge system that is introduced in alignment with ACOG and AAGL's advocacy for the elimination of blind assessment practices in the uterine cavity. Several key features of the HER izon Disposable Hysteroscope include. 1. Disposable Design: Single-use hysteroscope eliminates the need for traditional hysteroscope reprocessing, reduces the risk of cross-contamination, and ensures compliance with sterility standards. 2. Angled Cannula Tip: Provides rigidity to help enter the cervical canal and articulation to navigate an array of uterine cavity positions. 3. Compact Footprint: 4.8mm outer diameter sheath requires minimal or no dilation and 6Fr working channel allows for a broad spectrum of procedures such as direct visualization polypectomy, endometrial biopsy, D&C, and IUD removal. 4. User-Friendly Interface: High-Definition image technology, two LED lights provide bright and clear visualization, and the intuitive interface enables seamless system navigation. Dr. David Glassman, DO FACOG EMIGS, a prominent gynecologist in Phoenix, Arizona, shared his excitement about the new HER izon Disposable Hysteroscope, stating, “ HER izon is a revolutionary advancement in hysteroscopy technology. Designed with precision and patient comfort in mind, HER izon offers unparalleled clarity and control, providing healthcare professionals with a clearer view and easier access to the uterine cavity. Its innovative features enhance procedural efficiency, reducing both patient discomfort and procedure times. With HER izon, healthcare providers can elevate their practice, delivering superior care and empowering women to take control of their health with confidence.” The introduction of the HER izon Disposable Hysteroscope underscores Minerva Surgical’s commitment to providing gynecologists with solutions that improve patient outcomes. About Minerva Surgical, Inc. Minerva Surgical is a commercial-stage medical technology company focused on developing, manufacturing, distributing, and commercializing minimally invasive solutions to meet the distinct uterine healthcare needs of women. The Company has established a broad product line of commercially available, minimally invasive alternatives to hysterectomy, which are designed to address the most common causes of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB) in most uterine anatomies. The Minerva Surgical solutions can be used in a variety of medical treatment settings and aim to address the drawbacks associated with alternative treatment methods and to preserve the uterus by avoiding unnecessary hysterectomies. For more information about the HER izon Disposable Hysteroscope and other innovative medical devices from Minerva Surgical, please visit www.MinervaSurgical.com. The disposable hysteroscope is manufactured by Jiyuan Medical. Contact Details Minerva Surgical Kevin Tracey +1 855-646-7874 media@minervasurgical.com Company Website https://minervasurgical.com/

May 16, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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UNOS applauds passage of FAA reauthorization bill

United Network for Organ Sharing

Today, the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) issued its support of Congress’ passage of the bipartisan, bicameral Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill, which includes a provision to improve the safety and efficiency of the transportation of donor organs through the nation’s commercial aviation system. The bill now heads to the president’s desk for signature. The Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act requires the Department of Transportation (DOT), in consultation with the FAA, to convene a working group to develop best practices for transporting organs in the cabin of a commercial aircraft. The working group will include organ procurement organizations, transplant hospitals, commercial airlines, flight attendants and other federal agencies. DOT is required to convene the working group no later than 90 days after the bill is enacted. No later than one year after convening, the working group must present recommendations to the secretary of DOT. Before the September 11 attacks, organs – primarily kidneys – were transported within a commercial flight’s main cabin under supervision of the aircrew. The attacks prompted significant changes to airport protocols, including removing transplant professionals’ ability to accompany an organ through security without an airplane ticket. As a result, organs currently travel in the cargo hold and are subject to cargo business hours, which vary between airlines and are impacted by staffing shortages. Organs arriving when a cargo office is closed sit on ice for prolonged periods, increasing the potential for an organ not to be used. “Ensuring a donated organ gets to a patient on time and safely is absolutely critical, which is why UNOS has been working with the donation and transplant community and Congress to create a process to bring organs out of the cargo hold and back into the cabin of an airplane,” said Maureen McBride, Ph.D., CEO of UNOS. “Thank you to those working with us to advocate for change and include this provision in the FAA reauthorization package, namely Senators Ron Wyden, Maria Cantwell, Ted Cruz, and John Thune, and Reps. Bruce Westerman, Greg Stanton, Beth Van Duyne, Sam Graves, and Rick Larsen. The bill’s passage highlights the bipartisan consensus and understanding of the lifesaving importance of this issue. I appreciate the commitment to honor the gift of life and do right by patients on the waitlist, generous donors, and their families. I look forward to working with the Department of Transportation to bring organs back into the cabin of an aircraft.” Transportation is a cornerstone of the UNOS Action Agenda, a series of recommendations to strengthen the U.S. donation and transplant system. To further reduce the risk of delaying or damaging organs in transport, UNOS also recommends the next contracts for the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) should require the use of physical trackers for unaccompanied donor organs recovered for transplant, and the establishment of a centralized organ tracking system. “Donations and transplants are going up across the country, and so are the number of organs traveling every hour of every day,” said McBride. “This community owes it to patients and donor families to ensure that organs travel as safely and efficiently as possible. Every viable organ ultimately not transplanted represents a profound loss.” The provision included in the FAA reauthorization bill is the result of ongoing advocacy by UNOS and other members of the nation’s organ donation and transplant community. Since 2022, UNOS has engaged with FAA leadership, the Transportation Security Administration and the House and Senate to pursue this reform. Actions to move organs back to the airplane cabin and out of cargo are widely endorsed by the donation and transplant community, including the American Association of Kidney Patients, American Foundation for Donation & Transplantation, American Kidney Fund, American Society of Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics, American Society of Nephrology, American Society of Transplantation, American Society of Transplant Surgeons, Association of Organ Procurement Organizations, Donate Life America, Donate Life Virginia, Kidney Care Partners, Kidney Transplant Collaborative, National Kidney Foundation, Nationwide Organ Recovery Transport Alliance, North American Transplant Coordinators Organization, Organ Donation Advocacy Group, Renal Physicians Association, Transplant Recipients International Organization, Transplant Families, Transplant Unwrapped, and Waitlist Zero. About UNOS United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) is the mission-driven non-profit serving as the nation’s transplant system under contract with the federal government. We lead the network of transplant hospitals, organ procurement organizations, and thousands of volunteers who are dedicated to honoring the gifts of life entrusted to us and to making lifesaving transplants possible for patients in need. Working together, we leverage data and advances in science and technology to continuously strengthen the system, increase the number of organs recovered and the number of transplants performed, and ensure patients across the nation have equitable access to transplant. Contact Details United Network for Organ Sharing Anne Paschke +1 804-782-4730 anne.paschke@unos.org Company Website https://unos.org

May 15, 2024 02:53 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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