In many Asian countries, fertility rates continue to decline, with Japan's total fertility rate (TFR) at a record low of 1.4 children per woman, and South Korea's TFR at 0.9. China's one-child policy, implemented in 1979, has been partially lifted, but the country still faces challenges in reversing its aging population. Governments are exploring alternative solutions, such as immigration to boost workforce numbers and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve healthcare services and support families.
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/commentary/2025/03/05/low-fertility-rates/The session highlights the strategies employed by healthcare leaders at organizations such as Kaiser Permanente and UnitedHealth Group to optimize cost management while prioritizing population health. These leaders are utilizing data analytics and machine learning algorithms to identify high-risk patients and provide personalized interventions, such as medication therapy management and behavioral counseling. For example, Kaiser Permanente's "Care Coordinators" program uses a patient-centered approach to engage members in their preferred modality, whether that be in-person or virtually. By aligning risk adjustment with quality improvement initiatives, these leaders aim to close the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) gap and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/porter-emerges-as-the-only-in-home-vendor-health-plans-need-302398759.htmlA 18-year-old girl from Kerala died after following a water fasting diet inspired by online portals, which led to severe health risks including anorexia and extremely low blood sugar levels. Experts warn against crash diets and prolonged fasting without medical supervision, citing the dangers of blindly following extreme diet trends promoted on social media.
https://indiatoday.in/health/story/kerala-girl-dies-drinking-only-water-for-months-anorexia-extreme-weight-loss-diet-2691870-2025-03-11An 18-year-old girl, Sree Nanda, from Kerala, died after following an extreme diet that led to anorexia, weighing just 24 kg. She was admitted to ICU but succumbed despite treatment at Thalassery Co-operative Hospital.
https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/kerala/18-year-old-thalassery-girl-dies-after-extreme-diet-led-to-anorexia-1866173Labour's plans to overhaul the welfare system, which were expected to be announced today, have been delayed due to a Labour revolt led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak (not mentioned in the text) and Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall. Keir Starmer warned that the current system is "indefensible", but intense discussions behind the scenes are underway to minimize unrest among MPs. The proposed reforms, which include slashing £5 billion from benefits costs, face opposition from dozens of MPs who fear tougher conditions on sickness handouts and prioritizing support for those who have paid into the system.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14485533/Benefits-cuts-delayed-Labour-MPs-revolt-austerity-Keir-Starmer-indefensible-welfare.htmlMandy, a 48-year-old entrepreneur and CEO of a company aimed at improving people's lives, recounted a pitch where an investor made a comment about her being a mother, referencing her daughter singer Selena from the TV show "13 Reasons Why". Mandy responded by highlighting her accomplishments, including co-founding the mental health organization Wondermind with her daughter. She emphasized that she is proud of her life and career, and advised the investor to respect all people and not make personal attacks.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1290856-selena-gomezs-mother-claps-back-at-male-investor-over-snide-commentPrivate hospitals in the Philippines are optimistic about making the Medicare system portable, allowing it to be integrated into the country's healthcare system. Eric Lachica, a Medicare advocate, reported positive progress in negotiations with private hospitals and the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO), describing the second round of talks as "very good".
https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/03/12/news/national/private-hospitals-optimistic-on-medicare-portability/2071252The integration of AI is crucial for businesses to remain competitive, with its role as an enabler of productivity and growth becoming increasingly vital. Companies like Microsoft and Amazon are already leveraging AI to drive success, and those that fail to adapt risk falling behind.
https://www.techradar.com/pro/unlocking-ais-transformative-potential-for-competitive-edgePakistan ranks 145th out of 146 countries on the Global Gender Gap Index, with Afghanistan being the only country ranking lower. The country faces challenges in achieving gender equality, and women's economic participation can promote agricultural productivity and enterprise development. Mian Anjum Nisar, former president of FPCCI and BMP Chairman, emphasized the need for separate representation and quotas for businesswomen, citing a 30-40% representation goal. He highlighted that the constitution guarantees women's rights but laws are not fully implemented, requiring both government and private sector involvement to provide opportunities for women's development.
https://www.brecorder.com/news/40352268/gender-equality-bmp-of-fpcci-says-continues-to-face-significant-challenges