Health and Me

Ishita Roy

Hailey Bieber Is Battling With Ovarian Cysts, All That You Need To Know About It

On April 21, <span>Hailey Bieber</span> shared a selfie of herself lounging on a couch, and opened up about a recurring health challenge that she has been facing. She wrote on the post "Currently have 3 ovarian cysts", as she uploaded it on her Instagram story. 

In her photo, she rolled up her black tank top to show her stomach, which seemed to be bloated. In the photo, she further wrote: "If you deal with ovarian cysts I'm right there with ya!"

She also clarified that she does not have endometriosis or PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome), however, she has had cysts for a few times, and it has been recurring. She said that she had been dealing with it since 2022, and had a cyst "the size of an apple". 

She also clarified for any pregnancy rumor, and said that she was "bloated", and the stomach was "not a baby". She wrote: "It is painful and achey and makes me feel nauseous and bloated and crampy and emotional." 

As per National Health Service, UK, an ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on an ovary. They are very common and do not usually cause any symptoms. Most ovarian cysts occur naturally and go away in a few months without the need of any treatment. 

The ovaries are 2 almond-shaped organs, which are essential part of the female reproductive system. There is one on each side of the womb or the uterus and have two main functions: 

To release an egg approximately every 28 days as part of the menstrual cycle

To release the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone, which also play a key role in reproduction 

Ovarian cysts could affect both ovaries at the same tie or one at a time. 

The common symptoms of an ovarian cyst are:

<ul><li>pelvic pain – this can range from a dull, heavy sensation to a sudden, severe and sharp pain</li><li>pain during sex</li><li>difficulty emptying your bowels</li><li>a frequent need to urinate</li><li>heavy periods, irregular periods or lighter periods than normal</li><li>bloating and a swollen tummy</li><li>feeling very full after only eating a little</li><li>difficulty getting pregnant – although fertility is usually unaffected by ovarian cysts</li></ul>

There are two main types of ovarian cysts:

<strong>Functional cysts: </strong>These develop during the menstrual cycle. They’re the most common type, usually harmless, and tend to go away on their own.

<strong>Pathological cysts:</strong> These form due to abnormal cell growth and are much less common.

Sometimes, ovarian cysts can be linked to underlying conditions like endometriosis.

Most ovarian cysts are non-cancerous (benign). However, a small number can be cancerous (malignant), especially in women who have gone through menopause.

If your doctor suspects a cyst, they may refer you for a vaginal ultrasound scan. If a cyst is found, it might be monitored with another scan after a few weeks, or you may be referred to a gynaecologist.

If there's a chance the cyst could be cancerous, your doctor may also recommend blood tests to check for certain chemical markers. Keep in mind, high levels of these markers can also result from non-cancerous issues like:

<ul><li>Endometriosis</li><li>Pelvic infections</li><li>Fibroids</li><li>Your period</li></ul>

<ul><li>The cyst’s size and appearance</li><li>Whether you have symptoms</li><li>Whether you’ve gone through menopause</li></ul>

Often, the cyst goes away in a few months. A follow-up scan may be done to confirm this.

If you're postmenopausal, regular scans and blood tests might be done over a year to monitor the cyst, as the risk of cancer is slightly higher.

Surgery may be needed if the cyst is large, causes symptoms, or might be cancerous.

Most ovarian cysts don’t affect your ability to get pregnant. But in some cases, they can make conception harder.

If surgery is needed, doctors try to preserve your fertility. This could mean:

<ul><li>Removing only the cyst</li><li>Removing one ovary and leaving the other</li><li>In rare cases, both ovaries may need to be removed, which would stop egg production</li></ul>

It’s important to discuss fertility concerns with your surgeon before any operation.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

oavrian cyst

health and wellness

hailey bieber

hailey bieber cyst

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On April 21, Hailey Bieber shared a selfie of herself lounging on a couch, and opened up about a recurring health challenge that she has been facing. She wrote on the post "Currently have 3 ovarian cysts", as she uploaded it on her Instagram story. In her photo, she rolled up her black tank top to show her stomach, which seemed to be bloated. In the photo, she further wrote: "If you deal with ovarian cysts I'm right there with ya!"She also clarified that she does not have endometriosis or PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome), however, she has had cysts for a few times, and it has been recurring. She said that she had been dealing with it since 2022, and had a cyst "the size of an apple". She also clarified for any pregnancy rumor, and said that she was "bloated", and the stomach was "not a baby". She wrote: "It is painful and achey and makes me feel nauseous and bloated and crampy and emotional." What Are Ovarian Cysts?As per National Health Service, UK, an ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on an ovary. They are very common and do not usually cause any symptoms. Most ovarian cysts occur naturally and go away in a few months without the need of any treatment. The ovaries are 2 almond-shaped organs, which are essential part of the female reproductive system. There is one on each side of the womb or the uterus and have two main functions: To release an egg approximately every 28 days as part of the menstrual cycleTo release the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone, which also play a key role in reproduction Ovarian cysts could affect both ovaries at the same tie or one at a time. What Are The Symptoms?The common symptoms of an ovarian cyst are:pelvic pain – this can range from a dull, heavy sensation to a sudden, severe and sharp painpain during sexdifficulty emptying your bowelsa frequent need to urinateheavy periods, irregular periods or lighter periods than normalbloating and a swollen tummyfeeling very full after only eating a littledifficulty getting pregnant – although fertility is usually unaffected by ovarian cystsTypes of Ovarian CystsThere are two main types of ovarian cysts:Functional cysts: These develop during the menstrual cycle. They’re the most common type, usually harmless, and tend to go away on their own.Pathological cysts: These form due to abnormal cell growth and are much less common.Sometimes, ovarian cysts can be linked to underlying conditions like endometriosis.Most ovarian cysts are non-cancerous (benign). However, a small number can be cancerous (malignant), especially in women who have gone through menopause.Diagnosing Ovarian CystsIf your doctor suspects a cyst, they may refer you for a vaginal ultrasound scan. If a cyst is found, it might be monitored with another scan after a few weeks, or you may be referred to a gynaecologist.If there's a chance the cyst could be cancerous, your doctor may also recommend blood tests to check for certain chemical markers. Keep in mind, high levels of these markers can also result from non-cancerous issues like:EndometriosisPelvic infectionsFibroidsYour periodTreating Ovarian CystsTreatment depends on:The cyst’s size and appearanceWhether you have symptomsWhether you’ve gone through menopauseOften, the cyst goes away in a few months. A follow-up scan may be done to confirm this.If you're postmenopausal, regular scans and blood tests might be done over a year to monitor the cyst, as the risk of cancer is slightly higher.Surgery may be needed if the cyst is large, causes symptoms, or might be cancerous.Ovarian Cysts and FertilityMost ovarian cysts don’t affect your ability to get pregnant. But in some cases, they can make conception harder.If surgery is needed, doctors try to preserve your fertility. This could mean:Removing only the cystRemoving one ovary and leaving the otherIn rare cases, both ovaries may need to be removed, which would stop egg productionIt’s important to discuss fertility concerns with your surgeon before any operation.

hailey bieber is battling with ovarian cysts, all that you need to know about it

Does Smoking Affect Women Differently Than Men?

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On <span>World No Tobacco Day</span>, Dr. Sajjan Rajpurohit, Senior Director of Medical Oncology at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, sheds light on how tobacco affects women differently than men. While the overall dangers of <span>smoking</span> are well known, Dr. Rajpurohit emphasizes the need to understand the biological, hormonal, and social dimensions that make women more vulnerable to tobacco-related diseases and challenges in quitting.

<h4>Biological Differences Make Women More Sensitive to Nicotine</h4>

“Women metabolize nicotine more slowly than men, which results in prolonged exposure to its harmful effects,” says Dr. Rajpurohit. This slower metabolism, combined with hormonal changes across a woman’s life—such as during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause—can heighten nicotine’s addictive properties.

For instance, estrogen, a key female hormone, may increase sensitivity to nicotine, making it harder for women to quit. “This also explains why withdrawal symptoms might be more severe in women,” he adds.

Women who smoke are more susceptible to certain diseases than their male counterparts, warns Dr. Rajpurohit.

Though men historically had higher rates of lung cancer, the gap has narrowed as more women took up smoking. “Women are not only developing lung cancer at younger ages, but they may also face more aggressive forms of the disease,” he says, pointing to biological differences in lung structure and function.

Smoking significantly raises the risk of heart disease in women, especially those using hormonal contraceptives. “Smoking can cause the arteries to harden and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. When combined with birth control pills, the risk becomes even higher,” he explains.

<h4>Reproductive and Pregnancy Complications</h4>

Smoking affects fertility and reproductive health. It can lead to complications such as ectopic pregnancies, miscarriage, preterm delivery, and low birth weight. “Women in their childbearing years should be especially cautious, as smoking during this period can have lasting effects on both the mother and child,” Dr. Rajpurohit stresses.

He also highlights severe pregnancy-related risks like placental abruption (where the placenta detaches from the uterus) and placenta previa (when the placenta blocks the cervix), both of which can endanger maternal and fetal health.

<h4>Hormonal Imbalance and Fertility Issues</h4>

Nicotine disrupts hormonal balance, impacting ovulation and menstrual cycles. Women who smoke often report irregular periods and find it more difficult to conceive. “The damage is not just temporary—prolonged tobacco use can lead to long-term reproductive challenges,” says Dr. Rajpurohit.

<h4>Why Women Find It Harder to Quit</h4>

Quitting smoking can be a more difficult journey for women due to psychological, hormonal, and social factors.

“Many women smoke to manage stress, anxiety, or depression. This emotional dependence can complicate their efforts to quit,” Dr. Rajpurohit explains. Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can also influence cravings and mood, making it harder to resist smoking.

Additionally, women may lack adequate support from family or peers. “Social encouragement plays a huge role in smoking cessation, and women often find themselves without the backing they need,” he says.

To help women quit, he recommends a tailored approach involving behavioral therapy, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), and personalized quit plans. “These strategies must take into account individual stressors, emotional needs, and social settings,” he adds.

<h4>Secondhand Smoke and Societal Pressures</h4>

Women are often exposed to secondhand smoke in domestic environments, putting them at risk for the same diseases as smokers. “The dangers of passive smoking are real and can lead to respiratory illness, heart disease, and even pregnancy complications,” says Dr. Rajpurohit.

He also draws attention to how societal norms and advertising have historically influenced women’s smoking behavior. “Tobacco companies once marketed cigarettes to women as symbols of empowerment and liberation. Unfortunately, this portrayal led many to underestimate the health risks,” he notes.

In certain cultures, smoking among women may be normalized or not taken seriously, which further prevents intervention and support.

<h4>Empowering Women Through Awareness and Support</h4>

“Women face unique challenges when it comes to tobacco use, and we must address them with empathy and targeted strategies,” Dr. Rajpurohit concludes. On World <span>No Tobacco Day</span>, he urges women to seek help and become aware of the specific risks they face.

For those struggling with tobacco addiction, he recommends consulting healthcare professionals and exploring support systems that cater specifically to women’s needs. “The goal is not just to quit but to stay tobacco-free for life,” he says.

world no tobacco day 2025

world no tobacco day

no tobacco day

tobacco day

Smoking

smoking kills

On World No Tobacco Day, Dr. Sajjan Rajpurohit, Senior Director of Medical Oncology at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, sheds light on how tobacco affects women differently than men. While the overall dangers of smoking are well known, Dr. Rajpurohit emphasizes the need to understand the biological, hormonal, and social dimensions that make women more vulnerable to tobacco-related diseases and challenges in quitting.Biological Differences Make Women More Sensitive to Nicotine“Women metabolize nicotine more slowly than men, which results in prolonged exposure to its harmful effects,” says Dr. Rajpurohit. This slower metabolism, combined with hormonal changes across a woman’s life—such as during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause—can heighten nicotine’s addictive properties.For instance, estrogen, a key female hormone, may increase sensitivity to nicotine, making it harder for women to quit. “This also explains why withdrawal symptoms might be more severe in women,” he adds.Higher Risk of Certain DiseasesWomen who smoke are more susceptible to certain diseases than their male counterparts, warns Dr. Rajpurohit.Lung CancerThough men historically had higher rates of lung cancer, the gap has narrowed as more women took up smoking. “Women are not only developing lung cancer at younger ages, but they may also face more aggressive forms of the disease,” he says, pointing to biological differences in lung structure and function.Heart DiseaseSmoking significantly raises the risk of heart disease in women, especially those using hormonal contraceptives. “Smoking can cause the arteries to harden and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. When combined with birth control pills, the risk becomes even higher,” he explains.Reproductive and Pregnancy ComplicationsSmoking affects fertility and reproductive health. It can lead to complications such as ectopic pregnancies, miscarriage, preterm delivery, and low birth weight. “Women in their childbearing years should be especially cautious, as smoking during this period can have lasting effects on both the mother and child,” Dr. Rajpurohit stresses.He also highlights severe pregnancy-related risks like placental abruption (where the placenta detaches from the uterus) and placenta previa (when the placenta blocks the cervix), both of which can endanger maternal and fetal health.Hormonal Imbalance and Fertility IssuesNicotine disrupts hormonal balance, impacting ovulation and menstrual cycles. Women who smoke often report irregular periods and find it more difficult to conceive. “The damage is not just temporary—prolonged tobacco use can lead to long-term reproductive challenges,” says Dr. Rajpurohit.Why Women Find It Harder to QuitQuitting smoking can be a more difficult journey for women due to psychological, hormonal, and social factors.“Many women smoke to manage stress, anxiety, or depression. This emotional dependence can complicate their efforts to quit,” Dr. Rajpurohit explains. Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can also influence cravings and mood, making it harder to resist smoking.Additionally, women may lack adequate support from family or peers. “Social encouragement plays a huge role in smoking cessation, and women often find themselves without the backing they need,” he says.To help women quit, he recommends a tailored approach involving behavioral therapy, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), and personalized quit plans. “These strategies must take into account individual stressors, emotional needs, and social settings,” he adds.Secondhand Smoke and Societal PressuresWomen are often exposed to secondhand smoke in domestic environments, putting them at risk for the same diseases as smokers. “The dangers of passive smoking are real and can lead to respiratory illness, heart disease, and even pregnancy complications,” says Dr. Rajpurohit.He also draws attention to how societal norms and advertising have historically influenced women’s smoking behavior. “Tobacco companies once marketed cigarettes to women as symbols of empowerment and liberation. Unfortunately, this portrayal led many to underestimate the health risks,” he notes.In certain cultures, smoking among women may be normalized or not taken seriously, which further prevents intervention and support.Empowering Women Through Awareness and Support“Women face unique challenges when it comes to tobacco use, and we must address them with empathy and targeted strategies,” Dr. Rajpurohit concludes. On World No Tobacco Day, he urges women to seek help and become aware of the specific risks they face.For those struggling with tobacco addiction, he recommends consulting healthcare professionals and exploring support systems that cater specifically to women’s needs. “The goal is not just to quit but to stay tobacco-free for life,” he says.

no tobacco day does smoking affect women differently than men?

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Adults May Not Value Personal Hygiene As Much As They Should

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Personal hygiene is something our parents would insist upon in our youth. Teaching kids the value of keeping clean and keeping yourself healthy is something that a parent must do. While kids may sometimes be resentful of the constant nagging to keep clean, most of us grew to understand that it was an important life lesson. However, do adults carry forward the same level of cleanliness into adulthood? 

A recent survey shows that half of adults are cutting corners with their dental care. Surprisingly, one in five even choose a quick swish of mouthwash instead of brushing their teeth. 

<h2>Common Shortcuts and Their Reasons </h2>

The study was commissioned by Philips Sonicare, involved 2,000 adults. The study revealed that not only do 45% do not floss, 41% brush only once a day, but 12% have even used a finger as a makeshift toothbrush. 

Another surprising finding of the study was that nearly 20% of adults brush for less than the recommended two minutes, only freshening their breath instead of truly cleaning their teeth. 

However, why would someone sacrifice their sanitary health? Laziness, lack of time, and feeling unwell are common reasons for these shortcuts. A concerning one in 10 adults admitted to never having cleaned between their teeth with floss in their entire adult lives. An expert from Philips Sonicare, which sponsored the study, noted that many adults neglect <span>oral hygiene</span>, often unaware of the significant health consequences until it is too late. 

<h2>Oral Hygiene and Social Perceptions </h2>

The research also highlighted that most people, about 79%, believe others judge them based on their oral hygiene and the appearance of their teeth. In fact, 42% assume someone does not take care of themselves if they have discolored teeth, bad breath, or other oral issues. This suggests a strong social stigma associated with poor dental health. 

<h2>Impact on Life and Dental Visits </h2>

Poor oral hygiene has held many back, with 23% saying it prevented them from doing things like talking to people (46%), going on a date (29%), or posting photos showing their teeth on social media (27%). Nearly half believe it impacts romantic relationships, and 38% think it affects their job prospects. Despite this, only a quarter visit the dentist yearly, and 34% have never seen a hygienist, with one in ten not even knowing what a hygienist is. As a result, 41% have had a filling, 27% a tooth pulled, and 17% a root canal. Yet, 72% still believe their oral hygiene is generally healthy. 

<h2>Importance of Good Oral Hygiene </h2>

Neglecting daily brushing, flossing, or hygienist check-ups can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, and even more serious conditions like heart disease. To ensure proper cleaning, it is recommended to brush for two minutes, possibly using an electric toothbrush with a timer or listening to a song for timing. 

Brush for 2 minutes, twice a day: Most people brush for less than a minute, which isn't enough. Aim for a full two minutes, ideally in the morning and before bed, for a thorough clean. 

<strong>Use a fluoride toothpaste:</strong> Fluoride helps make your tooth enamel stronger and prevents cavities. After brushing, spit out the toothpaste but avoid rinsing your mouth right away to let the fluoride work longer. 

<strong>Be gentle, don’t scrub:</strong> Brushing too hard can wear down your tooth enamel and hurt your gums. Some electric toothbrushes have a sensor to tell you if you are brushing too hard. 

<strong>Don’t forget the gumline and back teeth:</strong> Plaque often builds up along the gumline and on your molars. Tilt your brush at a 45-degree angle to effectively clean along the gumline. 

<strong>Change your electric toothbrush head every 3 months:</strong> Old, worn-out bristles clean less effectively and can even hold bacteria. Replace your toothbrush or brush head every three months, or sooner if the bristles look frayed. 

Adults and Personal Hygiene

Oral Hygiene

oral hygiene and its effect on our health

oral hygiene care

oral hygiene tips

hygiene stats

Personal hygiene is something our parents would insist upon in our youth. Teaching kids the value of keeping clean and keeping yourself healthy is something that a parent must do. While kids may sometimes be resentful of the constant nagging to keep clean, most of us grew to understand that it was an important life lesson. However, do adults carry forward the same level of cleanliness into adulthood? A recent survey shows that half of adults are cutting corners with their dental care. Surprisingly, one in five even choose a quick swish of mouthwash instead of brushing their teeth. Common Shortcuts and Their Reasons The study was commissioned by Philips Sonicare, involved 2,000 adults. The study revealed that not only do 45% do not floss, 41% brush only once a day, but 12% have even used a finger as a makeshift toothbrush. Another surprising finding of the study was that nearly 20% of adults brush for less than the recommended two minutes, only freshening their breath instead of truly cleaning their teeth. However, why would someone sacrifice their sanitary health? Laziness, lack of time, and feeling unwell are common reasons for these shortcuts. A concerning one in 10 adults admitted to never having cleaned between their teeth with floss in their entire adult lives. An expert from Philips Sonicare, which sponsored the study, noted that many adults neglect oral hygiene, often unaware of the significant health consequences until it is too late. Oral Hygiene and Social Perceptions The research also highlighted that most people, about 79%, believe others judge them based on their oral hygiene and the appearance of their teeth. In fact, 42% assume someone does not take care of themselves if they have discolored teeth, bad breath, or other oral issues. This suggests a strong social stigma associated with poor dental health. Impact on Life and Dental Visits Poor oral hygiene has held many back, with 23% saying it prevented them from doing things like talking to people (46%), going on a date (29%), or posting photos showing their teeth on social media (27%). Nearly half believe it impacts romantic relationships, and 38% think it affects their job prospects. Despite this, only a quarter visit the dentist yearly, and 34% have never seen a hygienist, with one in ten not even knowing what a hygienist is. As a result, 41% have had a filling, 27% a tooth pulled, and 17% a root canal. Yet, 72% still believe their oral hygiene is generally healthy. Importance of Good Oral Hygiene Neglecting daily brushing, flossing, or hygienist check-ups can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, and even more serious conditions like heart disease. To ensure proper cleaning, it is recommended to brush for two minutes, possibly using an electric toothbrush with a timer or listening to a song for timing. Tips for Oral Hygiene Brush for 2 minutes, twice a day: Most people brush for less than a minute, which isn't enough. Aim for a full two minutes, ideally in the morning and before bed, for a thorough clean. Use a fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride helps make your tooth enamel stronger and prevents cavities. After brushing, spit out the toothpaste but avoid rinsing your mouth right away to let the fluoride work longer. Be gentle, don’t scrub: Brushing too hard can wear down your tooth enamel and hurt your gums. Some electric toothbrushes have a sensor to tell you if you are brushing too hard. Don’t forget the gumline and back teeth: Plaque often builds up along the gumline and on your molars. Tilt your brush at a 45-degree angle to effectively clean along the gumline. Change your electric toothbrush head every 3 months: Old, worn-out bristles clean less effectively and can even hold bacteria. Replace your toothbrush or brush head every three months, or sooner if the bristles look frayed. 

adults may not value personal hygiene as much as they should - uk survey reveals

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Cook County Health Grapples With Lost Grants Amid Federal Pullback

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In a devastating setback for global HIV research, the United States government has abruptly halted funding for a seminal mRNA-based <span>HIV vaccine</span> study, just days before its scheduled start in March 2025. The vaccine, developed under the BRILLIANT consortium, had secured all regulatory approvals and was on track to begin Phase 1 clinical trials in South Africa—a country with the highest number of people living with HIV.

Now, vials of the vaccine sit idle in lab refrigerators, their promise frozen alongside the hopes of researchers who have worked for years toward this breakthrough.

“It feels like the world has come to an end,” said Linda-Gail Bekker, director of the Desmond Tutu HIV Centre and the trial’s lead. “But we have to find a way forward.”

South Africa, a critical hub in the global HIV research ecosystem, has been hit particularly hard. The cuts have disrupted care and prevention programs, forced clinics to shut down, and triggered mass layoffs of healthcare workers.

Thesla Palanee-Phillips, director of clinical trials at Johannesburg’s Wits RHI, described the situation as a “devastating domino effect,” with research programs unraveling and data becoming unusable. She was deputy director of MATRIX, a major HIV-prevention R&amp;D initiative that lost its $125 million USAID grant. “There’s little chance of resurrection,” she said. “Our partners at USAID have been let go.”

This funding freeze erases not only years of work, but future dividends of innovation. Bekker warns that dismantling this “well-oiled ecosystem” of research and partnerships is a loss that goes beyond science—it’s bad economics.

The vaccine halt is not an isolated event. It’s part of a broader trend of U.S. health aid reductions, particularly under the Trump administration. Between 2017 and 2021, the administration canceled at least 68 health-related grants awarded to 46 institutions, totaling around $40 million. These included vital studies on LGBTQ health, youth suicide, and HIV prevention.

Many researchers believe the cuts were politically motivated. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) defended the terminations by citing a commitment to “gold-standard, evidence-based science,” though critics argue they reflect an ideological rollback on gender and minority protections.

Under Trump, the definition of gender in healthcare was altered, undermining Obama-era protections for transgender individuals. In 2020, the administration reversed rules prohibiting healthcare discrimination based on gender identity—actions that severely limited access to gender-affirming care and other essential services.

The Trump-era focus on trade protectionism also had medical repercussions. Tariffs on pharmaceutical imports from China have raised alarms about the future of heparin, a life-saving anticoagulant. Made primarily from pig intestines sourced in China, heparin has no real substitute for patients requiring injectable blood thinners.

The threat of tariffs could disrupt this fragile supply chain, raise drug costs, and cause shortages in U.S. hospitals. Manufacturing domestically would require major investment, and alternative sources remain limited. The consequences of such disruption go beyond inconvenience—they could endanger lives.

Despite the bleak outlook, researchers in South Africa are exploring alternate funding sources. Bekker has reassigned some of her staff to shield them from layoffs, while the South African Medical Research Council is in talks with the government, private philanthropists, and pharmaceutical companies.

“It takes decades to build a research career,” said Palanee-Phillips. “Overnight decisions are destroying the work we’ve done.” Yet, she holds on to a sliver of hope: that African researchers will persevere and rebuild.

As global health leaders now warn of a potential immunization disaster—should the U.S. also pull support from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance—the world is watching Washington’s next moves with urgency and concern. Because when America retreats from global health, the consequences reverberate far beyond its borders.

no fund for hiv vaccine us

trump government cuts funds

us news

HIV vaccine

no fund for hiv vaccine

trump govt cuts down hiv vaccine fund

In a devastating setback for global HIV research, the United States government has abruptly halted funding for a seminal mRNA-based HIV vaccine study, just days before its scheduled start in March 2025. The vaccine, developed under the BRILLIANT consortium, had secured all regulatory approvals and was on track to begin Phase 1 clinical trials in South Africa—a country with the highest number of people living with HIV.Now, vials of the vaccine sit idle in lab refrigerators, their promise frozen alongside the hopes of researchers who have worked for years toward this breakthrough.“It feels like the world has come to an end,” said Linda-Gail Bekker, director of the Desmond Tutu HIV Centre and the trial’s lead. “But we have to find a way forward.”A Domino Effect in South AfricaSouth Africa, a critical hub in the global HIV research ecosystem, has been hit particularly hard. The cuts have disrupted care and prevention programs, forced clinics to shut down, and triggered mass layoffs of healthcare workers.Thesla Palanee-Phillips, director of clinical trials at Johannesburg’s Wits RHI, described the situation as a “devastating domino effect,” with research programs unraveling and data becoming unusable. She was deputy director of MATRIX, a major HIV-prevention R&D initiative that lost its $125 million USAID grant. “There’s little chance of resurrection,” she said. “Our partners at USAID have been let go.”This funding freeze erases not only years of work, but future dividends of innovation. Bekker warns that dismantling this “well-oiled ecosystem” of research and partnerships is a loss that goes beyond science—it’s bad economics.Broader Cuts Undermine Health ProgressThe vaccine halt is not an isolated event. It’s part of a broader trend of U.S. health aid reductions, particularly under the Trump administration. Between 2017 and 2021, the administration canceled at least 68 health-related grants awarded to 46 institutions, totaling around $40 million. These included vital studies on LGBTQ health, youth suicide, and HIV prevention.Many researchers believe the cuts were politically motivated. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) defended the terminations by citing a commitment to “gold-standard, evidence-based science,” though critics argue they reflect an ideological rollback on gender and minority protections.Under Trump, the definition of gender in healthcare was altered, undermining Obama-era protections for transgender individuals. In 2020, the administration reversed rules prohibiting healthcare discrimination based on gender identity—actions that severely limited access to gender-affirming care and other essential services.Tariffs and the Heparin CrisisThe Trump-era focus on trade protectionism also had medical repercussions. Tariffs on pharmaceutical imports from China have raised alarms about the future of heparin, a life-saving anticoagulant. Made primarily from pig intestines sourced in China, heparin has no real substitute for patients requiring injectable blood thinners.The threat of tariffs could disrupt this fragile supply chain, raise drug costs, and cause shortages in U.S. hospitals. Manufacturing domestically would require major investment, and alternative sources remain limited. The consequences of such disruption go beyond inconvenience—they could endanger lives.Looking for New PathwaysDespite the bleak outlook, researchers in South Africa are exploring alternate funding sources. Bekker has reassigned some of her staff to shield them from layoffs, while the South African Medical Research Council is in talks with the government, private philanthropists, and pharmaceutical companies.“It takes decades to build a research career,” said Palanee-Phillips. “Overnight decisions are destroying the work we’ve done.” Yet, she holds on to a sliver of hope: that African researchers will persevere and rebuild.As global health leaders now warn of a potential immunization disaster—should the U.S. also pull support from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance—the world is watching Washington’s next moves with urgency and concern. Because when America retreats from global health, the consequences reverberate far beyond its borders.

trump government ends program for hiv vaccine: what is means for healthcare

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