HealthGap Project
An investigation revealed Nestle's baby cereals sold in low- and middle-income countries contain added sugar, while those in Europe have little to none. This echoes past controversies, including its 1970s formula marketing scandal, which led to the WHO’s International Code for Marketing of Breast-Milk Substitutes. Experts argue that weak regulations and vulnerable populations make poorer nations easy targets. Policymakers can respond with stricter enforcement, consumer education, and stronger surveillance to protect public health from exploitative corporate practices.
HealthGap Project newsletter
Ozempic, a GLP-1 drug originally for type 2 diabetes, has gained fame for weight loss, but its high cost puts it out of reach for millions worldwide. While production costs are low, patients pay drastically inflated prices , up to 39,000% above cost in some countries. Insulin, despite being over a century old, faces similar pricing issues, and access is limited in many low- and middle-income nations. A few pharmaceutical giants, including Novo Nordisk, control over 90% of insulin production, creating near-monopolies that prioritize profit over patients. Advocates are calling for fairer pricing, wider availability of insulin pens, and increased market competition. Without urgent action, diabetes care will remain a privilege for the wealthy rather than a global right.
Replacement smokers - Targeting Our Children
The tobacco industry continues to target children and adolescents in India, exploiting legal loopholes and weak enforcement despite strong laws on paper. Urgent, practical measures are needed to protect youth from early addiction and ensure real compliance on the ground.