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Health Awareness Week Underscores the Importance of Respiratory Health

By
Advertorial Desk
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NEW YORK, Feb. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As Health Awareness Week brings focus to preventive care and chronic condition management, VARON is highlighting the vital role respiratory health plays in overall well-being. Through its “Your Health, Our Commitment” initiative, the company is promoting greater awareness of breathing health while expanding access to supportive solutions for individuals managing long-term respiratory needs.

While cardiovascular health and metabolic conditions often dominate public discussion, respiratory health remains a foundational—yet frequently overlooked—component of overall wellness. Every organ relies on oxygen to function efficiently. When oxygen intake or blood oxygen saturation falls below optimal levels, the consequences extend beyond shortness of breath, potentially affecting sleep, cognition, heart function, and daily energy.

Why Respiratory Health Matters

The lungs play a critical role in transferring oxygen into the bloodstream, where it binds to hemoglobin and is delivered throughout the body. For individuals living with COPD, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, post-viral lung changes, or sleep-related breathing disorders, this oxygen exchange process may become less efficient.

Chronic low oxygen levels can contribute to:

  • Persistent fatigue
  • Morning headaches
  • Reduced exercise tolerance
  • Cognitive fog
  • Increased cardiovascular strain

Respiratory care professionals emphasize that consistent monitoring and early intervention are essential. When oxygen saturation regularly falls below physician-recommended levels, supplemental oxygen therapy may be prescribed as part of a long-term care plan.

Modern home-based oxygen therapy solutions can help provide stable oxygen support without the logistical challenges associated with traditional oxygen tanks, enabling individuals to maintain therapy more safely and comfortably in their daily living environment.

Daily Practices That Support Lung Function

In observance of Health Awareness Week, VARON encourages individuals to adopt practical, evidence-informed habits that support respiratory health:

  • Structured Breathing Exercises

Techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing and pursed-lip breathing may help improve ventilation efficiency and ease breathlessness.

  • Indoor Air Quality Management

Reducing airborne irritants, minimizing smoke exposure, and maintaining balanced humidity can contribute to long-term lung protection.

  • Gradual Physical Conditioning

Low-impact aerobic activity supports improved oxygen utilization and cardiovascular endurance.

  • Oxygen Monitoring

For at-risk individuals, pulse oximetry tracking under medical guidance can help detect early changes in oxygen saturation.

  • Appropriate Oxygen Support

When appropriately used, supplemental oxygen therapy may improve quality of life and help reduce complications associated with chronic hypoxemia.

For individuals who maintain active routines or travel frequently, advancements in lightweight portable oxygen support technologies now allow therapy to continue with greater flexibility and continuity.

Expanding Access During Health Awareness Week

To support awareness with meaningful action, VARON is introducing limited-time Health Awareness Week initiatives aimed at improving access to respiratory support solutions. These include sitewide savings, enhanced offers on select oxygen systems, and added support resources for qualifying orders.

The initiative is designed to help reduce financial barriers for individuals who may have postponed investing in respiratory care equipment due to cost concerns.

Featured Oxygen Support Options

As part of the campaign, several oxygen solutions tailored to varying respiratory needs are being highlighted:

Each oxygen machine is developed to support consistent oxygen delivery, ease of use, and patient comfort—factors respiratory specialists often identify as essential to long-term therapy adherence.

A Preventive Health Perspective

Health Awareness Week is a reminder that respiratory wellness is not only reactive—it is preventive. Early screening, lifestyle adjustments, and timely use of prescribed oxygen therapy can help reduce hospitalizations, improve energy levels, and support greater independence.

By combining education with practical support options, VARON’s campaign reinforces a broader message: maintaining respiratory health requires both awareness and proactive steps.

Limited-time Health Awareness Week initiatives are designed to help make respiratory support more accessible. Individuals are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals and explore educational resources to better understand their respiratory needs.

For more information on Health Awareness Week initiatives and available oxygen support solutions, visit the VARON official website.

About VARON

VARON is committed to supporting respiratory health by providing accessible oxygen solutions for both home and travel. The company emphasizes patient-centered innovation, reliability, and education, helping individuals breathe with greater confidence and comfort.

Media Contact

Company Name: VARON
Email: Send Email
Country: United States
Website: https://varoninc.com/

 

Laos Inflation Climbs to 6.2 Percent in February 2026, Driven by Housing, Energy Costs

By
Thongsavanh Souvannasane
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This photo is used for representational purpose only.

Laos’ inflation rate rose to 6.2 percent in February 2026, up from 5.1 percent in the previous month, indicating renewed price pressures after a brief easing. 

February’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) reached 258.7, a rise from 256.8 in January and 243.5 in the same month last year, reflecting continued year-on-year price growth.

Housing and Energy Costs Drive Inflation

The biggest contributor to inflation was the housing, water supply, electricity, and cooking fuel category, which saw a 24.3 percent increase year-on-year. 

This was mainly due to higher construction-related costs, including steel, plywood, and labor wages

Other categories also showed notable increases. 

Health care and medicine rose 13 percent, education increased 11.7 percent, alcohol and tobacco climbed 8.1 percent, and restaurants and hotels grew 8.0 percent. Clothing and footwear advanced 7.3 percent, while miscellaneous goods and services surged 37 percent, mainly due to rising gold prices, according to Laos Statistic Bureau.

On a month-on-month basis, overall prices increased 0.7 percent in February 2026, reversing the 0.2 percent decline recorded in January. 

Alcohol and tobacco prices rose 1 percent, restaurants and hotel prices increased 1 percent, and housing-related costs edged up 0.8 percent.

The primary drivers of inflation were rising domestic demand and higher energy prices. International energy prices increased by 12 percent, while domestic fuel prices also saw a rise, with diesel prices climbing by 7.2 percent.

Lao, Australian PMs Discuss Bilateral Ties, 2024 Methanol Poisoning in Phone Call

By
Thongsavanh Souvannasane
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Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese held a phone call on 25 February, discussing bilateral relations and the deadly 2024 methanol poisoning that claimed the lives of two Australians.

Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese held a telephone conversation on 25 February, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and the deadly methanol poisoning incident that claimed two Australian lives in late 2024.

The two leaders expressed mutual appreciation for the robust friendship and cooperation developed over 74 years of diplomatic relations. They highlighted that ties had flourished since the 2024 elevation to a Comprehensive Partnership, with collaboration spanning trade, investment, education, and human resource development. Both leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to celebrating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027 with significant events and continued high-level exchanges.

A central topic in the call was the tragic methanol poisoning incident in Vang Vieng, where six foreign tourists, including two Australians, died after consuming contaminated alcohol at a hostel. The authorities identified an illegal distillery as the source. Albanese thanked the Lao government for its swift response and cooperation in the investigation. In return, Siphandone extended his condolences to the families of the victims and assured that the investigation would proceed transparently and responsibly under Lao law.

The call followed Australia’s recent pledge of AUD 1.5 million (about USD 1.06 million) to improve food and alcohol safety systems in Laos, including strengthening inspections, laboratory capacity, and emergency response mechanisms. This funding aims to address gaps in the country’s safety infrastructure and enable quicker detection of contamination risks.

This discussion also followed recent high-level engagements, including a visit by Australia’s Special Representative, Pablo Kang, and a phone call between Lao Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong regarding the investigation.

As Laos and Australia approach the milestone of 75 years of diplomatic relations, the unresolved methanol poisoning case remains a somber reminder of the ongoing challenges in the partnership. The call underscored the commitment to finding justice for the victims’ families and addressing food safety issues more broadly.

Golden Triangle SEZ Tax Revenue Plunges 49% in 2025 as Hundreds of Businesses Shut Down

By
Phoudasack Vongsay
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A picture of the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Bokeo Province at night time. (Photo by GTSEZ Management Organisation)

Tax revenue in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Bokeo Province dropped nearly 49 percent in 2025, following the closure of 551 businesses.

According to the SEZ’s 2025 annual tax report, total revenue amounted to LAK 32.27 billion (approximately USD 1.5 million), down from LAK 127.73 billion (nearly USD 6 million) in 2024.

Authorities attributed the sharp decline in revenue to business closures and ongoing challenges in tax collection. They noted that the national agenda to address economic and financial difficulties has moved slower than anticipated, with business surveys and classifications delayed due to budget constraints and coordination issues.

According to Lao Economic Daily, more than 551 companies in the Bokeo Golden Triangle area ceased operations, while over 1,200 businesses renewed registrations and 165 new taxpayer IDs were issued.

Meanwhile, many businesses with annual revenues exceeding LAK 400 million (around USD 18,500) have not fully transitioned to proper accounting systems, complicating tax assessments. 

Unpaid tax debts, particularly those linked to budget-related spending, have also hindered revenue growth.

Push for Modernization and Stronger Enforcement

In response to these challenges, tax authorities have outlined measures to stabilize revenue and enhance oversight within the zone. These include closer collaboration with the SEZ management committee to improve road fee collection and encourage businesses to file and pay taxes independently through the TaxRIS digital system.

Authorities also plan to tighten monitoring of personal income tax from employee salaries and to ensure full transfer of ID card-related fees from the Kings Romans Group into the state budget.

The group is the primary investor in the Chinese-controlled special economic zone in Bokeo province. It has gained public attention over the past decade after being accused of operating as a hub for online scam operations, human trafficking, and organized crime.

Lastly, tax data collection will be expanded to include infrastructure projects and new business units, aiming to reduce revenue leakage and boost compliance in the upcoming year.

With these measures, officials aim to help the Golden Triangle SEZ meet future revenue targets.

World Bank Group’s IFC Invests in Malaysia’s Zetrix AI to Improve Access to Digital Public Infrastructure Services

By
Advertorial Desk
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KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Feb. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — To improve access to Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) services in Malaysia and emerging markets in the broader ASEAN region and beyond, the World Bank Group, through its private sector arm the International Finance Corporation (“IFC”), has announced an equity investment in Zetrix AI Berhad (“Zetrix AI”).

Judith Green, World Bank Group Country Manager for Malaysia (left) and TS Wong, Group Managing Director of Zetrix AI Berhad (right)
Judith Green, World Bank Group Country Manager for Malaysia (left) and TS Wong, Group Managing Director of Zetrix AI Berhad (right)

IFC’s RM155.6 million (or USD40 million) investment will support the development and rollout of new, blockchain-based DPI applications and artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled products that aim to improve digital inclusion, access to services, and economic efficiency in Malaysia and the broader ASEAN region. In Malaysia, these new services would integrate with the country’s digital ecosystem through MyDigital ID, the country’s digital identity system, and the Malaysia Blockchain Infrastructure (MBI), the country’s national blockchain service network.

Zetrix AI’s DPI applications and products aim to make a range of services more efficient, secure, and cost-effective, including the verification of digital IDs through to the digitalization of international trade and the tokenization of real-world assets, among others. The investment will also support Zetrix AI’s expansion of its DPI services into emerging markets in ASEAN and the rest of the world.

“This investment reflects IFC’s commitment to advancing Malaysia’s digital transformation agenda, in line with the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan, 2026-2030,” said Judith Green, World Bank Group Country Manager for Malaysia. “The development of Digital Public Infrastructure services is essential to improving public service delivery, strengthening economic competitiveness, and ensuring that growth is inclusive and sustainable.

“Investments like this allow us to scale innovative digital solutions and support the creation of resilient, secure and interoperable systems that expand access to services and opportunities for both people and businesses in Malaysia and emerging markets in the broader ASEAN region and beyond.”

“From digital IDs to digitised customs clearance processing to large language models and stablecoins, the real-world cross-border use cases in blockchain and AI that we are deploying are aimed at catalysing disruptive transformation across ASEAN and enabling deeper socio-economic integration in the region,” said TS Wong, Group Managing Director of Zetrix AI. “With the participation and market access from IFC, we will accelerate our global expansion plans.”

About IFC
IFC — a member of the World Bank Group — is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging private sector solutions and mobilizing private capital to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.

About Zetrix AI Berhad
Zetrix AI Berhad (“Zetrix AI”), formerly known as MY E.G. Services Berhad, is leading the way in the deployment of blockchain technology and artificial intelligence in powering the public and private sectors across ASEAN. Headquartered in Malaysia, Zetrix AI started operations in 2000 as a pioneer in the provision of electronic government services and complementary commercial offerings in its home country. Today, it has advanced to the forefront of technology transformation in the broader region, leveraging its Layer-1 blockchain platform Zetrix and embracing the convergence of Web3, AI and robotics to enable optimally-efficient, intelligent and secure cross-border transactions, digital identity interoperability and automation solutions that seamlessly connect people, businesses and governments.

Three Elite Crypto Journalists Strengthen Sandmark Global Editorial Team

By
Advertorial Desk
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New joiners bring decades of experience from Reuters, Bloomberg, CoinDesk, Cointelegraph and Forbes to elevate crypto news standards

GENEVA, Feb. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sandmark, the new media  outlet intent on setting a new standard in covering digital assets, today announced the addition of three accomplished journalists to its rapidly growing ranks. Stuart Clelland, Ana Paula Pereira and Parikshit Mishra join the team headed by Editor-in-Chief Giles Broom who is building one of the industry’s most experienced and credentialed newsrooms.

“We are actively recruiting talent to support Sandmark’s mission to deliver serious, credible market journalism and analysis as an independent media platform,” said Broom. “We deliver financial information to investors and aspire to set a new standard for journalistic excellence in digital asset coverage.”

Elite Credentials and Deep Expertise

Stuart Clelland joins as Senior Editor, bringing more than 15 years of experience in major news outlets, such as Cointelegraph and Bloomberg, and leading high-impact editorial teams. He specializes in deconstructing complex market narratives and identifying the signal amidst the noise of the digital asset industry.

Ana Paula Pereira starts as Americas News Editor, following her tenure at Cointelegraph, as the US Editor, and as an editor at Forbes Brazil covering financial markets.  Ana has considerable experience covering the intersection of finance, markets and digital assets.

Parikshit Mishra joins Sandmark as South Asia Editor. He recently held the role of Head of Asia at CoinDesk, where he managed the outlet’s regional editorial operations and with Reuters as an editor and correspondent. A seasoned financial editor and journalist, he specializes in crypto policy, company news and tech.

Addressing a Critical Gap in Crypto Coverage

Broom, a former Bloomberg journalist who has more than 20 years of experience in financial media and corporate communications, is actively recruiting for reporters to break news about crypto markets.

At a recent industry event in London, Broom highlighted the gap in mainstream crypto coverage: “We might wait light years for the mainstream media to focus in an open-minded way on understanding crypto’s utility and the investment case, even for the major coins,” Broom said. ” We have an opportunity to improve the quality of information in circulation on this topic.”

The appointments of Clelland, Pereira and Mishra demonstrate Sandmark’s commitment to addressing the gaps in crypto coverage and position the platform to deliver comprehensive, multi-continental coverage at a time when interest in cryptocurrency markets continues to grow.

Vacant positions are detailed on the careers section of the website.

About Sandmark

Sandmark is an independent media platform providing serious, credible crypto market news and analysis. The Sandmark Team is comprised of 15+ global employees, including journalists, researchers, and data analysts that are united in the mission to deliver clear, credible, and context-rich reporting. For more information, visit www.sandmark.com

Fanstanza Launches: A New Voice for Fans, Led by Veteran Editor Amanda Tan

By
Advertorial Desk
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SINGAPORE, Feb. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Fanstanza (https://fanstanza.gg/), a fresh, passion-driven digital publication for fans of anime, manga, games and esports, has officially launched. The new platform aims to elevate fan-centred coverage with clear, earnest and engaging content created by fans, for fans.


Under the leadership of Amanda Tan, Fanstanza sets out to redefine how fan communities connect with the stories, analysis and culture that matter most to them. Amanda brings extensive editorial experience and deep community insight, having previously served as Senior Editor at ONE Esports. There, she led the publication’s growth, scaling page views 95x to a peak of 9.5 million.

“Fanstanza is born from the heart of fandom, a place where the devotion, creativity and joy of fans are reflected in every story,” said Amanda Tan, Editor-in-Chief of Fanstanza. “Our mission is to deliver content that resonates, informs and elevates the fan experience.”

Fanstanza’s editorial focus spans:

  • In-depth anime and manga coverage: from reviews and recommendations to cultural commentary.
  • Gaming and esports reporting: including guides, event coverage, analysis and interviews.
  • Original features and community highlights: showcasing voices from across global fan communities.

Previously soft launched in December 2025, the publication has already recorded steady month-on-month growth in viewership, signalling strong early traction and clear demand for thoughtful, fan-driven coverage. The rapid uptake underscores a growing appetite for credible, community-first storytelling in the anime, gaming and esports space. Backed by private investment, Fanstanza is positioned for long-term growth, with plans to expand its editorial team, deepen regional coverage and build strategic partnerships that strengthen its role as a trusted voice within the global fandom ecosystem.

The editorial team at Fanstanza welcomes opportunities to work with brands both editorially and on custom publishing solutions. They can be reached at editors@fanstanza.gg. 

About Fanstanza

Fanstanza (/fænˈstæn.zə/) is a digital publication dedicated to delivering passionate, insightful and fan-first content about anime, manga, games and esports. Fanstanza exists to serve the fandom community with high-quality coverage and commentary that speaks directly to fan culture and interests.

Media Contact

Amanda Tan
Fanstanza
editors@fanstanza.gg

Laos, The Asia Foundation Team Up to Protect Nature, People

By
Laotian Times
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Vice Minister Dr Saynakhone Inthavong giving opening remarks. (Photo by Asia Foundation)

The Asia Foundation – On 23 February, the Department of Environment under Laos’ Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, signed a partnership agreement with The Asia Foundation to strengthen the way Laos reviews the environmental and social impacts of major projects like power plants and mines.

This new partnership aims to ensure that future infrastructure projects protect the environment and local communities.

“This partnership strengthens the environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) process, helping us manage environmental and social risks in infrastructure development. It will also build the capacity of our staff, ensuring a more sustainable future for Laos,” said Saynakhone Inthavong, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment

The program is supported by the Australian Government through the Mekong-Australia Partnership. It focuses on improving the skills of both national and provincial officials in reviewing and monitoring the impacts of projects, especially in renewable energy and mining.

This partnership builds on an earlier phase from 2022-2023, which helped Laos’ government staff become better at assessing and managing environmental and social impacts.

The second phase of the program will also develop guidelines for handling environmental impacts in the renewable energy and mining sectors. A field visit to Vietnam will allow Laos’ government to learn about best practices in managing these impacts.

The program will also include gender equality, disability, and social inclusion in the planning and development of future projects.

By improving the ESIA process, this partnership aims to help Laos protect its natural resources, build a more resilient climate, and promote sustainable development for the people of Laos.

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