Medical advances in 2024: new treatments, diagnostics, and innovative technology.

The year 2024 has witnessed significant advances in the field of medicine, which not only offer new hopes to patients but also open new avenues for research and treatment. Among the most notable discoveries is the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists, a group of drugs initially designed to treat type 2 diabetes. These medications have shown additional beneficial effects, such as reducing cardiovascular events and improving associated conditions like sleep apnea. Dr. Elizabeth Loder from the British Medical Journal emphasizes the need for further research on their long-term effects, particularly regarding weight control. Moreover, 2024 has been a groundbreaking year in the prevention of HIV. An innovative study has demonstrated that a semi-annual injection is significantly more effective than daily oral prophylaxis, showing an effectiveness of 96% in men. This new option could revolutionize the treatment and prevention of HIV, a disease that affects millions of people worldwide. However, the challenge remains access to treatment, as over 9 million people globally still do not receive the necessary care. Early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease has also advanced with a new blood test that has shown 90% accuracy in detecting the disease. This development could simplify a currently complicated diagnostic process, which often requires invasive procedures. Additionally, the drug Lecanemab has been approved for use in Europe, representing a significant advance in the treatment of the most common neurodegenerative disease. Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a focal point in medical research, with an increase in studies comparing the diagnostic capabilities of doctors with technology. Loder has noted that interest in new personalized therapies, especially in oncology, is on the rise. These therapies may not necessarily cure cancer but can prolong patients' lives, making them an emerging area of interest for both researchers and clinicians. The British National Health Service has initiated trials of personalized cancer vaccines, which could change the way oncology treatment is approached. These efforts, combined with research into specific drugs for cancers such as breast cancer and Hodgkin lymphoma, are transforming the landscape of cancer treatment. However, not all advancements focus on new therapies and diagnostics. Attention has also been given to the long-term effects of COVID-19, which can persist for years, especially among young people. Research on the impact of ultra-processed foods on health has highlighted the importance of healthy eating and its implications for public health. Climate change has emerged as a relevant topic, with studies exploring its impact on health. A Danish study has highlighted the relationship between air pollution and male infertility, as well as noise pollution and female infertility. These findings underscore the need to address environmental issues from a public health perspective. Finally, interest in avian influenza and other outbreaks of infectious diseases has grown among health professionals. Surveillance and research in this area are crucial for preventing future outbreaks and protecting global health. In summary, 2024 has established itself as a year of significant advances in medicine, from new treatments and diagnostics to the incorporation of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. These developments not only improve healthcare but also challenge the scientific community to continue researching and adapting clinical practices for the well-being of the population.