Health and Me

Riya Baibhawi

Medical Miracle: UK's  First Baby Born After Womb Transplant

In what is being considered a huge leap in the field of <span>reproductive health</span>, a baby girl has been born to a mother with a donated womb in the UK. Grace Davidson, 36, was born with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome, a rare condition in which the uterus is absent or underdeveloped, but the ovaries function normally. In 2023, she underwent the UK’s first successful womb transplant, receiving the uterus from her sister, Amy Purdie.

Two years after the groundbreaking transplant, Grace gave birth to her daughter, Amy, in February 2025. The name honours the woman who made the pregnancy possible. The new mother described the moment she first held Amy, who weighed just over two kilos (4.5 pounds), as "incredible" and "surreal." "It was quite overwhelming because we'd never really let ourselves imagine what it would be like for her to be here," she said. 

Grace first spoke to the <em>BBC</em> in 2018 about her hopes of becoming a mother through a womb transplant. Although her mother was initially considered as a donor, her uterus was found to be unsuitable. By 2019, Grace's sister Amy—already a mother of two—was being evaluated as a donor. After pre-surgery counselling and IVF treatment, Grace had several embryos stored.

The transplant, delayed due to the pandemic, was finally performed in February 2023. A surgical team of over 30 medics took 17 hours to remove Amy’s womb and successfully transplant it into Grace. Within two weeks, Grace experienced her first period and later conceived through IVF on the first attempt.

Grace described feeling her baby's first kick as "incredible" and the entire pregnancy as "really special." Baby Amy was born via Caesarean section at Queen Charlotte’s and Chelsea Hospital on 27 February. "It was an incredible moment, full of joy," said surgeon Isabel Quiroga, who led the transplant team.

The couple hopes to have a second child before the donated womb is removed. This will allow Grace to stop taking immunosuppressant drugs, which prevent organ rejection but can increase cancer risk if taken long-term. Surgeon Quiroga assured that the risk should return to baseline once the uterus is removed.

<h2>Around 15,000 Women Lack Functioning Uterus</h2>

Professor Richard Smith, a gynaecological surgeon at Imperial College Healthcare and head of <span>Womb Transplant UK</span>, called Amy's birth "astonishing and incredibly moving." He said around 15,000 women in the UK of childbearing age lack a functioning uterus, including about 5,000 born without one. His charity covered NHS costs for Grace’s transplant, with medical professionals donating their time.

Currently, 10 women are in fertility treatment or have embryos stored. Each transplant costs approximately £30,000, and the charity is funding two more. The clinical trial aims to complete 15 transplants—five from living donors and 10 from deceased ones. For Grace, the experience has deepened her bond with her sister. "It was incredibly difficult to let her do that for me," she said. "It's a huge act of sisterly love."

<strong>ALSO READ: </strong> <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/3-ophthalmologist-approved-ways-to-refresh-and-relax-your-eyes-once-a-week-for-strong-vision-article-151423264" data-type="tilCustomLink">3 Ophthalmologist-Approved Ways To Refresh And Relax Your Eyes Once A Week For Strong Vision</a>

Health Conditions A-Z

health

womb transplant uk

Reproductive Health

United Kingdom

Sexual Health

UK Health News

Tolerating Heat May Become More Difficult With Age – How To Deal With Lower Heat Tolerance In Older Adults

One Tablespoon Of These Seeds Can Be Your Sleeper Aids - Natural Sleep Booster You Should Have Everyday

15 Minutes In The Sun Can Reveal This Sign Of Skin Cancer

Health News

Dumbbell Exercises You Can Do At Home

These Foods Are Keeping You Awake At Night

Ways to Manage Sugar Cravings

Your Body Doesn’t Want You To Lose Weight – Here's It Resists

High-Protein No Cook Dishes You Should Try

Yoga Poses That Aid In Digestion

Low Calorie Dinner Options For Weight Loss

Cardiac Arrest Vs. Heart Attack: Difference Explained Under 60 Seconds

High Protein Low-Carb Snacks To Have On The Go

Knee Exercises Desk Workers Should Do For Joint Health

Why Do I Feel Sleepy During The Day?

High Protein Early Morning Meals To Keep You Full Till Lunch

International Yoga Day 2025: Benefits of Doing Tadasana Every Morning

High-Carb Foods That Are Really Healthy

Dementia Vs Alzheimer’s: Difference Explained Under 60 Seconds

Healthy Staple Foods To Make Eating Healthy Easier

Are You Dealing With Abandonment Issues? Signs And Risk Factors

Mid-Work Healthy Snacks You Can Eat Throughout The Day

Common Mistakes You May Be Making In The Gym

Strengthen Your Legs Muscles With These Exercises

Beat Anxiety With Books: How Reading Helps With Stress

Ghee For Health: Ayurvedic Health Benefits Of Clarified Butter

Common Mistakes You Are Making While Walking

Exercises You Should Do At Home When You Skip Gym

Common Mistakes You May Be Making While Working Out

Ways You Are Runing Your Weight Loss Journey

Beyond Fruits – How To Retain Hydration And Stay Safe In Summers

Can This Extremely Hot Weather Trigger Our Mental Health?

You Are Hurting Your Gut Health With These Habits

Avoid The Heat With These Indoor Exercises

Stay Sharp! Activities That Keep Cognitive Diseases At Bay

Protect Your Cardiovascular Health With These Heart Healthy Foods

Ways To Ease Nighttime Anxiety

Smoothie Ideas That Can Help With Weight Loss

Low Fat Foods That Are Actually Unhealthy

All Suryanamaskar Poses And How To Do Them

Do Changing Seasons Affect Your Weight?

Can Heatwave Affect Your Diet?

Heatwave To Monsoon: Health Concerns With Seasonal Changes

Standing Exercises That Help You Burn Calories

In what is being considered a huge leap in the field of reproductive health, a baby girl has been born to a mother with a donated womb in the UK. Grace Davidson, 36, was born with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome, a rare condition in which the uterus is absent or underdeveloped, but the ovaries function normally. In 2023, she underwent the UK’s first successful womb transplant, receiving the uterus from her sister, Amy Purdie.Two years after the groundbreaking transplant, Grace gave birth to her daughter, Amy, in February 2025. The name honours the woman who made the pregnancy possible. The new mother described the moment she first held Amy, who weighed just over two kilos (4.5 pounds), as "incredible" and "surreal." "It was quite overwhelming because we'd never really let ourselves imagine what it would be like for her to be here," she said. Here's How It HappenedGrace first spoke to the BBC in 2018 about her hopes of becoming a mother through a womb transplant. Although her mother was initially considered as a donor, her uterus was found to be unsuitable. By 2019, Grace's sister Amy—already a mother of two—was being evaluated as a donor. After pre-surgery counselling and IVF treatment, Grace had several embryos stored.The transplant, delayed due to the pandemic, was finally performed in February 2023. A surgical team of over 30 medics took 17 hours to remove Amy’s womb and successfully transplant it into Grace. Within two weeks, Grace experienced her first period and later conceived through IVF on the first attempt.Grace described feeling her baby's first kick as "incredible" and the entire pregnancy as "really special." Baby Amy was born via Caesarean section at Queen Charlotte’s and Chelsea Hospital on 27 February. "It was an incredible moment, full of joy," said surgeon Isabel Quiroga, who led the transplant team.The couple hopes to have a second child before the donated womb is removed. This will allow Grace to stop taking immunosuppressant drugs, which prevent organ rejection but can increase cancer risk if taken long-term. Surgeon Quiroga assured that the risk should return to baseline once the uterus is removed.Around 15,000 Women Lack Functioning UterusProfessor Richard Smith, a gynaecological surgeon at Imperial College Healthcare and head of Womb Transplant UK, called Amy's birth "astonishing and incredibly moving." He said around 15,000 women in the UK of childbearing age lack a functioning uterus, including about 5,000 born without one. His charity covered NHS costs for Grace’s transplant, with medical professionals donating their time.Currently, 10 women are in fertility treatment or have embryos stored. Each transplant costs approximately £30,000, and the charity is funding two more. The clinical trial aims to complete 15 transplants—five from living donors and 10 from deceased ones. For Grace, the experience has deepened her bond with her sister. "It was incredibly difficult to let her do that for me," she said. "It's a huge act of sisterly love."ALSO READ:  3 Ophthalmologist-Approved Ways To Refresh And Relax Your Eyes Once A Week For Strong Vision

medical miracle: uk's  first baby born after womb transplant

Aarushi Bhadury

Commonwealth Swimmer Archie Goodburn And His Journey With A Rare Cancer That Kills Before 40

Archie Goodburn

Health & Wellness

Hundreds Report Pancreatitis After Using Weight-Loss Drugs; UK Launches A Study To Investigate

hundreds report pancreatitis after using weight-loss drugs; uk launches a study to investigate

Fact Check: Can Scorpion Venom Really Treat Cancer?

fact check: can scorpion venom really treat cancer?

Wegovy vs. Mounjaro: Which Weight-Loss Jab Works Best?

wegovy vs. mounjaro: which weight-loss jab works best?

World Drug Day 2025: Why Is It Important For Us To Observe This Day?

world drug day 2025: why is it important for us to observe this day?

“It’s a moment I’ll never forget, when I sat down at the edge of the pool – the pool where I’ve trained my whole life – to find out there’s a brain tumor” 

In 2024, <span>Archie Goodburn</span>, a- young and promising 23-year-old athlete (currently 24-year-old) who won a bronze medal at a major junior championship and swam for Scotland, shared difficult news of being diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. This Scottish swimmer who has a record in the 50 m breaststroke found himself in a position where he might have to put a stopper on his dreams of competing in the Paris Olympic. He was diagnosed with incurable brain tumors. This discovery came after he experienced numbness and seizures, especially around the time he was trying to qualify for the Olympics.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/world-drug-day-2025-why-is-it-important-for-us-to-observe-this-day-article-152155130" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">World Drug Day 2025: Why Is It Important For Us To Observe This Day?</a> 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Incurable Brain Cancer</span> And Impending Time Limit </h2>

Tests after the Olympic trials showed Archie has three large brain tumors called oligodendrogliomas that can't be removed with surgery. These tumors are rare and usually grow slowly, forming from a type of brain cell. While they're more often found in adults, they can affect anyone. Archie will now be undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy to treat them.

Also Read: Hundreds Report Pancreatitis After Using Weight-Loss Drugs; UK Launches A Study To Investigate 

The <span>brain tumor</span> is in a critical area and is the leading cancer killer for people under 40, according to Brain Tumour Research. 

Taking to social media Archie explained that he started having strange episodes of dizziness and was feeling uncomfortable in late 2023 that messed up his training. At first, they thought these were severe migraines. They caused him to lose strength, feel numb on his left side, and experience fear, nausea, and strong déjà vu. He now knows these were actually seizures.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/hundreds-report-pancreatitis-after-using-weight-loss-drugs-uk-launches-a-study-to-investigate-article-152156666" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Hundreds Report Pancreatitis After Using Weight-Loss Drugs; UK Launches A Study To Investigate</a> 

<h2><span rel="noindex">What Is Oligodendrogliomas</span>? </h2>

According to the US National Cancer Institute, Oligodendroglioma is a type of tumor that starts in the brain or spinal cord. To correctly diagnose it, doctors look for two specific changes in the tumor's genes: a specific gene change called an IDH mutation and a particular loss of parts of chromosomes 1 and 19. 

Archie on his Instagram account said, “My tumors express a mutation of my IDH1 gene that is shared with some forms of leukaemia.” According to a 2012 study published in the Brain Pathology, IDH1 gene is a mutation that happens in the early stages of brain development and is a common step in the development of brain tumors. This type of gene mutation is common in glial tumors, which are a type of tumor that originated in the glial cells present in the brain and spinal cord. 

To get a clear diagnosis, doctors usually need to take a small piece of the tumor during surgery, if possible. A neuropathologist then looks at this piece of the tumor. 

The National Cancer Institute explains that the causes of this brain tumor are still unknown. However, being exposed to radiation and having certain gene changes passed down in families might increase the chance of getting them. 

<h2>What Are The Chances of Survival for Oligodendrogliomas? </h2>

Prognosis is about the likely outcome of the disease or the chance of recovery. It depends on several things: Type, grade, location, spread and severity of the type of tumor, specific gene changes, the patient's age, and how much of the tumor is left after surgery (if surgery was possible). Archie said, “IDH inhibiting medications, a new class of drug, have seen phenomenal developments in the last few years with some pretty amazing results. Continued progress in this field will aid my prognosis massively.” 

About 79.5% of people with oligodendroglioma are still alive five years after diagnosis. However, one must remember that there are many things that affect this number. These include the tumor's grade and genetic makeup, the person's age and health when diagnosed, and how well they respond to treatment. If you want to understand your own outlook, it's best to talk to your doctor. 

Despite the tough news, Archie is staying incredibly positive. He mentioned a "silver lining": these types of tumors often respond better to radiotherapy and chemotherapy than some other serious brain tumors. He also noted they usually grow slowly and might have been there for years. 

Archie is determined to face this challenge head-on. He's drawing strength from being young and fit, and from the amazing support he gets from his friends, family, and girlfriend. He plans to "remain positive and to keep being Archie." Many people have applauded his strength and resilience to bring awareness about the disease “I'm lucky... I've got time to shout about this disease.” 

Brain Cancer

Commonwealth Swimmer Archie Goodburn

Rare Cance

Incurable Brain Cancer

Brain Tumor

What Is Oligodendrogliomas

is Oligodendrogliomas hereditory

“It’s a moment I’ll never forget, when I sat down at the edge of the pool – the pool where I’ve trained my whole life – to find out there’s a brain tumor” In 2024, Archie Goodburn, a- young and promising 23-year-old athlete (currently 24-year-old) who won a bronze medal at a major junior championship and swam for Scotland, shared difficult news of being diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. This Scottish swimmer who has a record in the 50 m breaststroke found himself in a position where he might have to put a stopper on his dreams of competing in the Paris Olympic. He was diagnosed with incurable brain tumors. This discovery came after he experienced numbness and seizures, especially around the time he was trying to qualify for the Olympics.Also Read: World Drug Day 2025: Why Is It Important For Us To Observe This Day? Incurable Brain Cancer And Impending Time Limit Tests after the Olympic trials showed Archie has three large brain tumors called oligodendrogliomas that can't be removed with surgery. These tumors are rare and usually grow slowly, forming from a type of brain cell. While they're more often found in adults, they can affect anyone. Archie will now be undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy to treat them.Also Read: Hundreds Report Pancreatitis After Using Weight-Loss Drugs; UK Launches A Study To Investigate The brain tumor is in a critical area and is the leading cancer killer for people under 40, according to Brain Tumour Research. Taking to social media Archie explained that he started having strange episodes of dizziness and was feeling uncomfortable in late 2023 that messed up his training. At first, they thought these were severe migraines. They caused him to lose strength, feel numb on his left side, and experience fear, nausea, and strong déjà vu. He now knows these were actually seizures.Also Read: Hundreds Report Pancreatitis After Using Weight-Loss Drugs; UK Launches A Study To Investigate What Is Oligodendrogliomas? According to the US National Cancer Institute, Oligodendroglioma is a type of tumor that starts in the brain or spinal cord. To correctly diagnose it, doctors look for two specific changes in the tumor's genes: a specific gene change called an IDH mutation and a particular loss of parts of chromosomes 1 and 19. Archie on his Instagram account said, “My tumors express a mutation of my IDH1 gene that is shared with some forms of leukaemia.” According to a 2012 study published in the Brain Pathology, IDH1 gene is a mutation that happens in the early stages of brain development and is a common step in the development of brain tumors. This type of gene mutation is common in glial tumors, which are a type of tumor that originated in the glial cells present in the brain and spinal cord. To get a clear diagnosis, doctors usually need to take a small piece of the tumor during surgery, if possible. A neuropathologist then looks at this piece of the tumor. The National Cancer Institute explains that the causes of this brain tumor are still unknown. However, being exposed to radiation and having certain gene changes passed down in families might increase the chance of getting them. What Are The Chances of Survival for Oligodendrogliomas? Prognosis is about the likely outcome of the disease or the chance of recovery. It depends on several things: Type, grade, location, spread and severity of the type of tumor, specific gene changes, the patient's age, and how much of the tumor is left after surgery (if surgery was possible). Archie said, “IDH inhibiting medications, a new class of drug, have seen phenomenal developments in the last few years with some pretty amazing results. Continued progress in this field will aid my prognosis massively.” About 79.5% of people with oligodendroglioma are still alive five years after diagnosis. However, one must remember that there are many things that affect this number. These include the tumor's grade and genetic makeup, the person's age and health when diagnosed, and how well they respond to treatment. If you want to understand your own outlook, it's best to talk to your doctor. Archie's Positive Outlook Despite the tough news, Archie is staying incredibly positive. He mentioned a "silver lining": these types of tumors often respond better to radiotherapy and chemotherapy than some other serious brain tumors. He also noted they usually grow slowly and might have been there for years. Archie is determined to face this challenge head-on. He's drawing strength from being young and fit, and from the amazing support he gets from his friends, family, and girlfriend. He plans to "remain positive and to keep being Archie." Many people have applauded his strength and resilience to bring awareness about the disease “I'm lucky... I've got time to shout about this disease.” 

commonwealth swimmer archie goodburn and his journey with a rare cancer that kills before 40

Ishita Roy

Rare Heart Side Effect Prompts FDA to Revise COVID Vaccine Labels

Former Anti-Vaccine Leader to Weigh In On CDC Vaccine Strategy

former anti-vaccine leader to weigh in on cdc vaccine strategy

Nutrition

New Texas Law Could Change Labeling Of Food Additives Across US

new texas law could change labeling of food additives across us

Measles Outbreak: North Carolina Confirms Its First Case Of 2025

measles outbreak: north carolina confirms its first case of 2025

Daughter Of Kate Shemirani Passes Away From Cancer At 23, Son Says She Fell For Anti-vaxxer 'Mum's Conspiracy Theories'

daughter of kate shemirani passes away from cancer at 23, son says she fell for anti-vaxxer 'mum's conspiracy theories'

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (<span>FDA</span>) has updated its warning labels for the two most widely used COVID-19 vaccines — Pfizer and Moderna — to provide more detailed information about the rare risk of myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle. The condition has primarily been observed in younger males and was first identified shortly after the vaccines became widely available in 2021.

<h4>More Detailed Labeling After FDA Request</h4>

Though both vaccine makers had already included myocarditis warnings in their prescribing information, the FDA formally asked them in April to expand these details. The agency can mandate label changes, but such updates are typically negotiated with drugmakers.

The revised warning now estimates that 8 cases of myocarditis occur per 1 million people who received the 2023–2024 COVID vaccines in the age group of 6 months to 64 years. The update also clarifies that the risk is highest among males aged 12 to 24, a slight expansion from the earlier label, which focused on boys aged 12 to 17.

<h4>Conflicting Findings Within U.S. Agencies</h4>

Interestingly, this update appears to contradict some earlier findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC had previously stated that, based on vaccine safety data through 2022, there was no significant increase in myocarditis risk linked to COVID-19 vaccines. They also pointed out that vaccine-related myocarditis cases tend to be mild and resolve quickly, especially when compared to heart inflammation caused by the COVID-19 infection itself.

<h4>New Advisory Panel Brings Vaccine Scrutiny</h4>

The timing of the FDA’s label change aligns with broader shifts in vaccine policy under the leadership of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. A longtime vaccine skeptic, Kennedy recently dismissed all 17 members of the CDC's vaccine advisory panel and appointed a new group, some of whom have expressed anti-vaccine sentiments in the past. This week marked their first meeting, where ongoing use of COVID-19 vaccines, especially among vulnerable groups like pregnant women, was discussed.

<h4>New Restrictions and Requirements Under Review</h4>

FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary, appointed by Kennedy, has taken several steps to limit the scope of COVID-19 vaccine recommendations. Recently, he restricted annual COVID-19 booster shots to seniors and high-risk individuals. Makary has also suggested that seasonal updates to vaccines — meant to better match circulating virus strains — should be treated as entirely new products requiring additional clinical testing.

<h4>Focus Should Be on Understanding Risk, Not Curtailing Vaccines</h4>

While acknowledging that myocarditis should not be dismissed, some public health experts believe the FDA’s latest approach is flawed. “We should be investigating who is prone to myocarditis to see if we can predict and mitigate that risk,” said Dr. Robert Morris, a public health specialist at the University of Washington. “They are right to raise the concern, but not with these broad warning changes," as reported by Associated Press. 

Makary and his team had previously questioned the government’s booster recommendations. In a 2022 paper, he and two FDA colleagues argued that mandating boosters for young people might lead to more harm than good, a position that diverged from CDC guidance at the time.

COVID 19 vaccine guidelines

health news

health news USA

FDA covid19 vaccine

COVID 19

heart health

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has updated its warning labels for the two most widely used COVID-19 vaccines — Pfizer and Moderna — to provide more detailed information about the rare risk of myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle. The condition has primarily been observed in younger males and was first identified shortly after the vaccines became widely available in 2021.More Detailed Labeling After FDA RequestThough both vaccine makers had already included myocarditis warnings in their prescribing information, the FDA formally asked them in April to expand these details. The agency can mandate label changes, but such updates are typically negotiated with drugmakers.The revised warning now estimates that 8 cases of myocarditis occur per 1 million people who received the 2023–2024 COVID vaccines in the age group of 6 months to 64 years. The update also clarifies that the risk is highest among males aged 12 to 24, a slight expansion from the earlier label, which focused on boys aged 12 to 17.Conflicting Findings Within U.S. AgenciesInterestingly, this update appears to contradict some earlier findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC had previously stated that, based on vaccine safety data through 2022, there was no significant increase in myocarditis risk linked to COVID-19 vaccines. They also pointed out that vaccine-related myocarditis cases tend to be mild and resolve quickly, especially when compared to heart inflammation caused by the COVID-19 infection itself.New Advisory Panel Brings Vaccine ScrutinyThe timing of the FDA’s label change aligns with broader shifts in vaccine policy under the leadership of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. A longtime vaccine skeptic, Kennedy recently dismissed all 17 members of the CDC's vaccine advisory panel and appointed a new group, some of whom have expressed anti-vaccine sentiments in the past. This week marked their first meeting, where ongoing use of COVID-19 vaccines, especially among vulnerable groups like pregnant women, was discussed.New Restrictions and Requirements Under ReviewFDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary, appointed by Kennedy, has taken several steps to limit the scope of COVID-19 vaccine recommendations. Recently, he restricted annual COVID-19 booster shots to seniors and high-risk individuals. Makary has also suggested that seasonal updates to vaccines — meant to better match circulating virus strains — should be treated as entirely new products requiring additional clinical testing.Focus Should Be on Understanding Risk, Not Curtailing VaccinesWhile acknowledging that myocarditis should not be dismissed, some public health experts believe the FDA’s latest approach is flawed. “We should be investigating who is prone to myocarditis to see if we can predict and mitigate that risk,” said Dr. Robert Morris, a public health specialist at the University of Washington. “They are right to raise the concern, but not with these broad warning changes," as reported by Associated Press. Makary and his team had previously questioned the government’s booster recommendations. In a 2022 paper, he and two FDA colleagues argued that mandating boosters for young people might lead to more harm than good, a position that diverged from CDC guidance at the time.

rare heart side effect prompts fda to revise covid vaccine labels

Nearly 30 People in England Get Rare Illness After Botox; How Safe Are Cosmetic Procedures, Really?

nearly 30 people in england get rare illness after botox; how safe are cosmetic procedures, really?

<span>World Drug Day</span> is marked on June 26 every year. Also known as the International Day against <span>Drug Abuse</span> and Illicit Trafficking, this day aims to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drugs, notes the United Nations. 

It was on December 7, 1987, when by the resolution 42/112. the General Assembly decided to observe 26 June as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking to achieve a society free of drug abuse. 

<h4><span rel="noindex">World Drug Day 2025</span> Theme</h4>

This year's theme is "The Evidence is Clear; Invest in Prevention." This theme highlights the urgent need to invest in preventative measures to address the world's drug problem. It also aims to create a long-lasting resilience against drug abuse.

<strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/rfk-jr-opens-up-about-heroin-addiction-and-calls-for-focus-on-prevention-article-151489741" data-type="tilCustomLink">RFK Jr. Opens Up About Heroin Addiction and Calls for Focus on Prevention</a></strong> 

Drug abuse is a global challenge and harms individual silently. It is often the reason why families break and communities weaken. The impact goes beyond addiction, causing a lasting physical, mental, and social damage. Furthermore, ATS, also known as the Amphetamine-Type Stimulants are synthetic drugs that harm the brain, heart, and nervous system. 

As per the 2024 report by UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), number of people who use drugs has risen to 292 million in 2022, a 20% increase over the 10 years. Cannabin remains the most widely used drug worldwide, with an estimate of 228 million users. It is followed by opioids with 60 million users, ATM with 30 million users, cocaine with 23 million users, and ecstasy with 20 million users.

<strong>READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/what-are-the-most-abused-drugs-in-the-us-article-151101843" data-type="tilCustomLink">What Are The Most Abused Drugs In The US?</a></strong>

The report notes that nitazenes, which is a group of synthetic opioids which can be even more potent than fentanyl, have recently emerged in several high-income countries, resulting in an increase in overdose deaths. 

Though an estimated 64 million people worldwide suffer from drug use disorders, only one in 11 is in treatment. Women receive less access to treatment than men, with only one in 18 women with drug use disorders in treatment versus one in seven men. 

These numbers show why is it important to observe World Drug Day, so a society free of drug abuse can be achieved. 

<h4><span rel="noindex">Drug Impact On Health</span></h4>

As per the notification released by Government of India on the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2025, here are the health issues that are caused by various drugs:

<ul><li><strong>Methamphetamine (Meth): </strong>A crystal-like drug that severely damages the brain and heart.</li><li><strong>Cocaine:</strong> A white powder that can cause heart attacks and strong addiction.</li><li><strong>Mephedrone:</strong> A party drug that leads to anxiety, confusion and heart issues.</li><li><strong>Hashish:</strong> Made from cannabis, it affects memory and mental health.</li></ul><strong>YOU MAY LIKE TO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/matthew-perry-investigation-can-ketamine-kill-someone-article-151033259" data-type="tilCustomLink">Matthew Perry Investigation: Can Ketamine Kill Someone?</a></strong>

As per the National Institute on Drug Abuse's publication titled, Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction, people with addiction often have one or more associated health issues, which could include lung or heart disease, stroke, cancer, or mental health conditions. 

Furthermore, use of methamphetamine can cause severe dental problems, which is also known as meth mouth. The study notes, "in addition, some drugs, such as inhalants, may damage or destroy nerve cells, either in the brain or the peripheral nervous system (the nervous system outside the brain and spinal cord)."

Use of drugs can also increase the risk of contracting infections. The study notes: "HIV and hepatitis C (a serious liver disease) can occur from sharing injection equipment or from unsafe practices such as condom-less sex.40,41 Infection of the heart and its valves (endocarditis) and skin infection (cellulitis) can occur after exposure to bacteria by injection drug use."

<strong>READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/liam-payne-investigation-how-pink-cocaine-affects-you-article-151067570" data-type="tilCustomLink">Liam Payne Investigation: How Pink Cocaine Affects You?</a></strong>

Drugs can also cause mental illness and increase the symptoms of anxiety, depression, or even schizophrenia,, as it can trigger specific vulnerabilities. It can also impact pregnant or breastfeeding mother and her baby could go into withdrawal after it's born. This is called neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS).

This year, not just with the theme, but with the campaign, "Break the cycle. #StopOrganizedCrime", the aim is to highlight the long-term action to break the cycle of drug abuse and its illicit trafficking by addressing root causes, investing in prevention, and building stronger health, education, and social systems.

<strong>READ MORE: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/national-anti-drug-day-2024-reintegrating-in-society-after-rehab-article-151043259" data-type="tilCustomLink">National Anti-Drug Addiction Day 2024: Reintegrating In Society After Rehab</a></strong> 

world drug day

drug impact on health

World Drug Day 2025

Drug abuse

drug overdose

World Drug Day is marked on June 26 every year. Also known as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, this day aims to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drugs, notes the United Nations. History of World Drug DayIt was on December 7, 1987, when by the resolution 42/112. the General Assembly decided to observe 26 June as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking to achieve a society free of drug abuse. World Drug Day 2025 ThemeThis year's theme is "The Evidence is Clear; Invest in Prevention." This theme highlights the urgent need to invest in preventative measures to address the world's drug problem. It also aims to create a long-lasting resilience against drug abuse.ALSO READ: RFK Jr. Opens Up About Heroin Addiction and Calls for Focus on Prevention Importance of World Drug DayDrug abuse is a global challenge and harms individual silently. It is often the reason why families break and communities weaken. The impact goes beyond addiction, causing a lasting physical, mental, and social damage. Furthermore, ATS, also known as the Amphetamine-Type Stimulants are synthetic drugs that harm the brain, heart, and nervous system. As per the 2024 report by UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), number of people who use drugs has risen to 292 million in 2022, a 20% increase over the 10 years. Cannabin remains the most widely used drug worldwide, with an estimate of 228 million users. It is followed by opioids with 60 million users, ATM with 30 million users, cocaine with 23 million users, and ecstasy with 20 million users.READ: What Are The Most Abused Drugs In The US?The report notes that nitazenes, which is a group of synthetic opioids which can be even more potent than fentanyl, have recently emerged in several high-income countries, resulting in an increase in overdose deaths. Though an estimated 64 million people worldwide suffer from drug use disorders, only one in 11 is in treatment. Women receive less access to treatment than men, with only one in 18 women with drug use disorders in treatment versus one in seven men. These numbers show why is it important to observe World Drug Day, so a society free of drug abuse can be achieved. Drug Impact On HealthAs per the notification released by Government of India on the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2025, here are the health issues that are caused by various drugs:Methamphetamine (Meth): A crystal-like drug that severely damages the brain and heart.Cocaine: A white powder that can cause heart attacks and strong addiction.Mephedrone: A party drug that leads to anxiety, confusion and heart issues.Hashish: Made from cannabis, it affects memory and mental health.YOU MAY LIKE TO READ: Matthew Perry Investigation: Can Ketamine Kill Someone?As per the National Institute on Drug Abuse's publication titled, Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction, people with addiction often have one or more associated health issues, which could include lung or heart disease, stroke, cancer, or mental health conditions. Furthermore, use of methamphetamine can cause severe dental problems, which is also known as meth mouth. The study notes, "in addition, some drugs, such as inhalants, may damage or destroy nerve cells, either in the brain or the peripheral nervous system (the nervous system outside the brain and spinal cord)."Use of drugs can also increase the risk of contracting infections. The study notes: "HIV and hepatitis C (a serious liver disease) can occur from sharing injection equipment or from unsafe practices such as condom-less sex.40,41 Infection of the heart and its valves (endocarditis) and skin infection (cellulitis) can occur after exposure to bacteria by injection drug use."READ: Liam Payne Investigation: How Pink Cocaine Affects You?Drugs can also cause mental illness and increase the symptoms of anxiety, depression, or even schizophrenia,, as it can trigger specific vulnerabilities. It can also impact pregnant or breastfeeding mother and her baby could go into withdrawal after it's born. This is called neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS).This year, not just with the theme, but with the campaign, "Break the cycle. #StopOrganizedCrime", the aim is to highlight the long-term action to break the cycle of drug abuse and its illicit trafficking by addressing root causes, investing in prevention, and building stronger health, education, and social systems.READ MORE: National Anti-Drug Addiction Day 2024: Reintegrating In Society After Rehab 

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.

Medical Miracle: UK's First Baby Born After Womb Transplant

Quick Stories