More Actions to Ban Tobacco and E-Cigarettes!

As part of the EU’s plan for a tobacco-free generation by 2040, the European Commission has proposed a plan to ban the sale of flavored, heated tobacco products. A study from the European Commission, published in June 2022, showed a 10% increase in sales of heated tobacco products, such as vapes, between 2018 and 2020 in more than five member states. Furthermore, heated tobacco products accounted for more than 2∙5% of total sales of tobacco products across the EU. With the majority of lung cancers caused by tobacco, it is hoped that this proposed ban will help reduce tobacco smoking and thus reduce related cancer mortality and morbidity. The proposal is currently under review with EU member states and the European Parliament. Once published, member states will have 8 months to transpose the directive into law, and 3 months before the provisions will start to apply.

Professional Identity and Medicines Development: An Academy Alumna Perspective

Below we continue with our series of content from graduates of the Academy Medical Affairs course. We think a deep understanding of one’s Professional Identity is essential to success in Medical Affairs and Medicines Development. Included here is the second essay written by Olga Lucia Angarita. Enjoy this student contribution and do feel free to send us your comments. Thank you, Olga, for another insightful contribution to the Academy.

Research Ethics in Latin America: Where Do They Stand?

Latin America is a highly populated continent, and most people, especially in Brazil and Argentina, live in large cities. This is an ideal situation for the implementation of clinical trials, as the dense populations guarantee the availability of patients. In addition, the globalization of the pharma industry and the entrepreneurial spirit of several CROs made Latin America and the Caribbean an important geographical area for the implementation of clinical trials.

Is it Time to Abandon the Impact Factor?

All professionals active in the scientific arena are familiar with the ‘Impact Factor’, an indicator of the relevance of publications, which considers the number of citations every published paper gets in the two years following its publication. But should we be evaluating scientific contributions in this way?

Is Monkeypox the Next Pandemic?

The so-called “monkeypox” is spreading, and several countries are starting to implement measures to limit the spread while also offering therapies to infected individuals. and also to offer therapies to infected individuals. In fact, monkeypox has been declared by the US Department of Health and Human Services to be a public health emergency. Fortunately, two weapons to fight this virus are already available: a vaccine (the Jynneos vaccine) which is now studied as intradermal injection, and an antiviral drug, known as TPOXX, available to treat the most severe cases of monkeypox.

News from ICH: New Guideline for Drug Interaction Studies

The International Council for Harmonization (ICH) issued a public consultation of the M12 guideline entitled “DRUG INTERACTION STUDIES”.  Medical Affairs professionals are familiar with the critical dilemma they may face when in the development of a NCE in which they must consider the implementation of interaction studies.  This is an ongoing focus, as the development of any new drug following the approval of any NCE may create the need for additional interaction studies.

Academy News and Views: Enroll Now in Our Leadership Course!

Recent surveys among pharmaceutical industry C level executives show that there is a lack of well-trained leaders within their organizations. In today´s pharmaceutical environment Medical Affairs and Medicines Development professionals are well positioned to lead and seat in the decision-making table. If you feel you want to be prepared to be in this position this is the course to attend.
IFAPP Academy has partnered with Tufts University CSDD and developed a world class online course to provide you with knowledge and insight to impact strategic decision-making within your organization. In addition, through the program’s interactive online setting, you will interact and learn from industry leaders and other global biomedical professionals building and expanding your network with faculty and peers across the industry via discussion forums, lectures, and webinars.

Fraud and Misconduct in Medical Affairs

One only needs to watch the news to see examples of fraud and misconduct. But when fraud and misconduct occur in the scientific arena, the consequences may be significant for both patients and healthcare professionals. Research misconduct can seriously undermine the protection and promotion of public health. Therefore, considerable effort is expended in detecting and correcting such events. This webinar will explore past and present scenarios and offer suggestions for preventing fraud in scientific research and medicines development.

Academy News and Views: Get Key Industry Updates from Our Newsletter!

The Academy recognizes the importance of keeping you, our readers, up to date with the latest news relevant to your role in the Medical Affairs arena. As a result, the IFAPP Academy Editorial Board, along with the Operations office, initiated the distribution of bi-monthly newsletters. These newsletters are curated pieces designed to keep you, the Medical Affairs professional, in the know regarding regulatory bodies, pharmaceutical and biotech companies, Academy activities, and other important developments in our industry. You will also find select articles posted on LinkedIn and Facebook. Recent data indicates this data has been well-received by the IFAPP Academy audience.