Medical advances of 2024: Transformations that improve global health in 2025.

The year 2024 has been a period of transformation in the field of health, setting a precedent that promises to significantly impact the lives of millions of people worldwide. With the onset of 2025, specialists from the British Medical Journal (BMJ) have highlighted important advances that could redefine the treatment and management of diseases, ranging from diabetes to cancer, including conditions such as HIV and Alzheimer’s. These advancements not only reflect the efforts of the scientific community but also the increasing integration of technology into medicine. One of the most notable milestones of the year has been the introduction and consolidation of GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide, marketed under the names Ozempic and Wegovy. This group of medications, initially conceived for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, has demonstrated additional efficacy in promoting weight loss and reducing cardiovascular risks. Recent study results suggest that these treatments not only help control blood sugar levels but may also decrease the severity of sleep apnea and improve renal health in patients. Simultaneously, the fight against HIV has made a step forward with the confirmation that biannual injections are more effective than daily oral prophylaxis. This advancement is particularly relevant for regions where access to daily treatments is limited. The possibility of receiving treatment less frequently could change the dynamics of healthcare and increase treatment adherence among the most vulnerable populations. In the realm of diagnostics, a Swedish study has developed a blood test that presents a 90% accuracy rate in detecting Alzheimer’s. This advancement is significant as traditional diagnoses of this disease required invasive procedures, such as PET scans or obtaining samples of cerebrospinal fluid. The ability to use a simple blood test could facilitate earlier diagnosis and, consequently, improve patients’ quality of life by allowing for more timely interventions. Furthermore, artificial intelligence has begun to play a crucial role in the detection and treatment of diseases. With the initiation of trials in the British National Health Service (NHS) on personalized cancer vaccines, a future is envisioned in which immunotherapy and specific treatments are tailored to the individual needs of each patient, thereby improving success rates in therapies for breast cancer and Hodgkin lymphoma. However, health challenges have not disappeared. Studies on the long-term effects of COVID-19, especially in young people, continue to be analyzed. This phenomenon has revealed complications that extend beyond acute infections, leading the scientific community to focus on the mental and physical health of survivors. Additionally, the relationship between air pollution and infertility has begun to gain relevance, underscoring the need to address the environmental causes affecting public health. The impact of ultra-processed foods has also been a recurring theme in health studies. As more research reveals their negative effects on health, a renewed approach to education and regulation of the food industry is necessary. These concerns are becoming increasingly urgent in a world facing climate change, which exerts additional pressure on global health systems. The advancements of 2024 not only provide innovative therapeutic options but also reflect a growing commitment from science and medicine to improve quality of life. The integration of artificial intelligence and the development of personalized treatments are just examples of how technology can revolutionize healthcare. As we enter 2025, the horizon of global health appears more hopeful than ever. As we continue to navigate these advancements, it is crucial to maintain a patient-centered approach and ensure equity in access to these new treatments, so that the benefits of medical science are enjoyed by all, regardless of socioeconomic status. The promise of the future of health is bright, and the achievements of this year are just the beginning of a journey towards comprehensive and sustainable well-being.