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FDA Clears World’s First Mobile App for Contactless Pulse Rate Measurement

  • PanopticAI’s tech turns smartphones and tablets into medical-grade vital sign monitors.
  • This is a major milestone in the Hong Kong-based startup’s mission to ensure accessible, scalable healthcare.
  • The AI-based technology’s diverse use cases include telehealth, remote patient monitoring, community health screening, decentralized clinical trials and personal wellness.
  • PanopticAI’s early adopters include Gleneagles Hospital Hong Kong (part of IHH Healthcare), Mannings (Hong Kong’s leading health and beauty chain) and Bupa (multinational health insurer).

HONG KONG, Jan. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — PanopticAI, a leading innovator in remote patient monitoring, announced today it has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its contactless vital signs monitoring software. The PanopticAI Vital Signs app is the first FDA-cleared mobile application for contactless pulse rate measurement using the built-in camera of iPhones and iPads. This also distinguishes PanopticAI as the first Hong Kong-based company to achieve FDA clearance for a Software as a Medical Device (SaMD).

PanopticAI’s technology leverages proprietary remote photoplethysmography (rPPG) algorithms to transform readily available smartphones and tablets into medical-grade vital sign monitors. Advanced AI and signal processing techniques are used to analyze subtle color changes in the skin captured by the device’s camera, accurately measuring vital signs like pulse rate in just 30 seconds.

This FDA clearance represents a significant milestone in PanopticAI’s mission to make healthcare more accessible and scalable. By leveraging the ubiquity of smartphones, PanopticAI’s technology eliminates the need for specialized equipment, significantly reducing costs and expanding access to vital sign monitoring for a wider population. The company’s contactless vital signs monitoring technology is already used by hospitals, insurance providers and pharmacies. Its customers include Gleneagles Hospital Hong Kong (part of IHH Healthcare, one of the world’s largest healthcare providers), Mannings (Hong Kong’s leading health and beauty chain) and Bupa (multinational health insurer).

Clinical testing was conducted on a diverse patient population reflecting US census data to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the PanopticAI Vital Signs app across a broad range of users. Rigorous non-clinical testing evaluated the app’s performance under various conditions, including different lighting, distances, and user characteristics, to ensure reliable operation in real-world settings. The PanopticAI Vital Signs app also underwent rigorous cybersecurity and human factors testing to ensure patient safety and ease of use.

“We are delighted to receive FDA clearance for our technology, validating our commitment to developing clinically sound, accessible health solutions,” said Dr. Kyle Wong, CEO & Co-founder of PanopticAI. “This clearance for contactless pulse rate measurement is the first of several anticipated approvals, and we look forward to building upon this success as we expand our technology’s capabilities.”

Dr. Kenneth Tsang, Chief Executive Officer of Gleneagles Hospital Hong Kong (Gleneagles) and Regional Chief Executive Officer of IHH Healthcare North Asia, said, “Gleneagles embraces innovative solutions and new technologies to make personalised healthcare more accessible and encourage patients to have better awareness and management of their own health and wellbeing. As the first private hospital in Hong Kong to collaborate with PanopticAI to adopt the solution in the hospital’s mobile application, we are pleased to be able to help more patients through participating in the validation of the reliability and effectiveness of this innovative technology.”

Chibo Tang, Managing Partner of Gobi Partners, said, “Gobi Partners were early supporters of PanopticAI and are excited by this important milestone. Traditional vital sign monitoring wearables are often costly and uncomfortable, leading to poor adherence. PanopticAI’s FDA-cleared app, however, makes monitoring your vital signs as easy as using your smartphone, empowering patients to become active participants in their own healthcare journeys.”

The PanopticAI Vital Signs app is not intended to be the sole method to assess a subject’s physical health condition. The measurements it provides should complement, not replace, professional medical care and/or medication.

About PanopticAI

PanopticAI is Hong Kong’s leading health technology company revolutionizing vital signs monitoring with its clinically validated remote photoplethysmography (rPPG) technology. Our award-winning Vitals™ SDK transforms smartphones, tablets, and computers into medical-grade vital signs monitors, making health monitoring accessible and scalable for everyone. In just 30 seconds, Vitals™ SDK accurately measures key physiological parameters, including heart rate, heart rate variability, breathing rate, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, stress level and more – all without wearables or specialized equipment. This breakthrough in remote patient monitoring enables healthcare providers, wellness organizations, and insurance enterprises to reduce the burden on healthcare staff while empowering users with insights for early detection and chronic disease management. PanopticAI is backed by Alibaba Hong Kong Entrepreneurs Fund, Gobi Partners, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and The Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation.

About Gobi Partners

Gobi Partners is an Asia-focused venture capital firm with US$1.6 billion in Assets Under Management (AUM). Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong, the firm supports entrepreneurs from the early to growth stages and focuses on emerging and underserved markets. Founded in 2002, Gobi has raised 21 funds and invested in over 380 startups with 62 operating in the Circular Economy. Gobi has grown to 15 locations across key markets in Bangkok, Beijing, Dhaka, Guangzhou, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Karachi, Kuala Lumpur, Lahore, Manila, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Singapore and Tianjin. As a Participant in the United Nations Global Compact, Gobi Partners is committed to aligning strategies and operations with universal human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption principles to ensure long-term value creation and sustainability across its portfolio. The firm launched its third Sustainability Report in June 2024. For more information about Gobi Partners, please visit https://gobi.vc.

CONTACT: hello@panoptic.ai

WELCOME 2025 IN STYLE WITH THE SUMMIT NEW YEAR CONCERT: SET A NEW STANDARD FOR URBAN LIFESTYLE DESTINATION AT CHINA WORLD SUMMIT WING, BEIJING

BEIJING, Jan. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Nestled in the heart of Beijing, China World Summit Wing, Beijing owned by Shangri-La Group is steps away from China World Mall and Office Building. As the highest hotel in Beijing with a magnificent view of the city, we strive to set a new standard for Urban Lifestyle Destination by seamlessly integrating diverse lifestyle trends, local arts and culture, vibrant social ambiance, top-notch hospitality experience and sustainable practices.

China World Summit Wing, Beijing is more than just a hotel; it is the social hub for people with exceptional taste to celebrate their life. We boast a range of unparalleled facilities including a Michelin-award winning restaurant- The Red Chamber, a high-rise restaurant Grill 79 known for its innovative fusion culinary finesse, skyline lounge and bar with live Jazz music and sophisticated cocktails. For those looking for a wellness escape, Chi, the SPA crafts an Oriental style 5 senses journey to offer the ultimate tranquility together with a state-of-the-art Health Club and infinity pool.

Being a patron of arts, China World Summit Wing, Beijing hosted ‘2025 The Summit New Year Concert’ to celebrate the new year presenting world-class music masterpieces with China National Opera & Dance Drama Theater (CNODDT) symphony orchestra.

The hotel is committed to creating an Urban Lifestyle Destination that fully incorporates arts and culture into our hospitality experience. The Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage art inspires our innovative F&B offerings to presenting an unforgettable culinary journey.

To host all guests to the colorful joys of life, we provide customized experiences. We curated a Citywalk map for 4 unique themed routes allowing inquisitive travelers to fully experience and enjoy Beijing.

At Shangri-La, we aim to be the best-loved hospitality group delivering hospitality that empowers our people, uplifts local communities, nurtures the planet, and celebrates Asian heritage.

China World Summit Wing, Beijing has worked to integrate sustainable practices into every aspect of our operations. The hotel is situated in a Platinum LEED EB and WELL certified building. We engaged with our local community by hosting the CBD Vertical Run event to promote a healthy lifestyle and fine balance in life.

China World Summit Wing, Beijing is owned by Shangri-La Group, known as the highest hotel in Beijing at 330 meters. Located at a prestigious address, and sits within the China World Trade Centre complex. Check-in reception is on the 64th floor, you will enter a hotel decorated with tasteful, ultra-modern interiors and designs that marry traditional Chinese beauty with chic Western finesse. The hotel also offers tantalizing dining choices including 3 designer restaurants, a bar and a lounge, and four exclusive venues for private dining. Indulge also in ultimate relaxation journey with the Health Club’s indoor infinity pool and CHl, THE SPA.

Uniswap Drops $35M UNI AirDrop Live Ahead of Official X Announcement and V4 Rollout

NEW YORK, Jan. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Uniswap, the world’s leading decentralized exchange in the DeFi ecosystem, has quietly launched a groundbreaking $35M UNI AirDrop, allowing early participants to claim their tokens Before The Official Announcement debuts on X early Monday, January 27th. The announcement will be made via Uniswap’s official X page @Uniswap. While the news started to make waves across the crypto space, this pre-announcement air of exclusivity positions Uniswap as a pioneer in creating opportunities for its community. The UNI AirDrop is part of a broader push tied to the highly anticipated rollout of Uniswap V4, a significant upgrade that promises to enhance the platform’s efficiency and scalability.

 

Uniswap Drops $35M UNI AirDrop Live Ahead of Official X Announcement and V4 Rollout
Uniswap Drops $35M UNI AirDrop Live Ahead of Official X Announcement and V4 Rollout

 

A Unique Opportunity for Early Claimants

Uniswap’s decision to pre-announce the AirDrop offers participants a strategic edge. As crypto enthusiasts eagerly await the official unveiling on X, those in the know are already seizing the chance to secure their share of the $35M UNI token distribution. By rewarding early adopters, Uniswap reaffirms its commitment to empowering its community and fostering participation in the DeFi revolution.

The AirDrop aligns with a remarkable period of growth for Uniswap, as its Year-over-Year (YoY) volume surged by 102% in 2024, solidifying its position as a leader in decentralized finance. The simultaneous rollout of V4 marks another milestone, introducing a host of cutting-edge features designed to streamline trading and improve liquidity efficiency, further reinforcing Uniswap’s standing at the forefront of innovation.

Riding the Momentum of Crypto Buzz

This strategic AirDrop comes during a transformative time for the crypto world. Former U.S. President Donald Trump’s bold vision to establish the United States as the global capital of blockchain and cryptocurrency has ignited a renewed sense of optimism in the market. Bitcoin has continued to rally, and altcoins like Uniswap’s UNI are enjoying heightened attention. By aligning the AirDrop with this wave of momentum, Uniswap positions itself as a pivotal player in the next chapter of decentralized finance.

Building on the AirDrop Trend

Uniswap’s $35M UNI AirDrop follows hot on the heels of Jupiter’s recent $630M JUP token distribution, which made headlines across the crypto world. The two events highlight the growing prominence of AirDrops as a means to reward loyal users and drive adoption. While Jupiter’s campaign showcased its commitment to scaling within the Solana ecosystem, Uniswap’s AirDrop focuses on expanding its dominance across Ethereum and beyond, leveraging its reputation as the largest on-chain marketplace.

The synergy between these events underscores the competitive and fast-evolving nature of the DeFi space, where platforms continually innovate to attract and engage their communities.

Eligibility and Participation

To participate in the AirDrop, eligible users can visit the official Uniswap website, where details about eligibility requirements are clearly outlined. With the AirDrop already live, early claimants are encouraged to act swiftly to secure their share. The window of opportunity will remain open until further announcements are made via Uniswap’s official channels.

The eligibility criteria have been carefully crafted to ensure fair distribution, rewarding both new and long-time Uniswap users. The full requirements are available on the official site, offering transparency and guidance for anyone looking to take part.

Uniswap V4: Transforming DeFi Efficiency

Uniswap V4 is set to introduce groundbreaking advancements in decentralized trading, including enhanced fee structures, improved liquidity pools, and more robust support for cross-chain integrations. These upgrades aim to solidify Uniswap’s dominance in the DeFi landscape while setting new standards for user experience and scalability.

The V4 rollout, which begins today, comes as the latest step in Uniswap’s ambitious roadmap for 2025. The platform’s vision for decentralization, combined with its commitment to innovation, ensures it will remain a leader in shaping the future of finance.

A Community-Centric Approach

Uniswap has consistently prioritized its user base, and this AirDrop is no exception. By offering early claimants an exclusive opportunity, the platform demonstrates its dedication to fostering a strong and engaged community. The decision to time the AirDrop ahead of the official announcement underscores Uniswap’s commitment to transparency and user empowerment.

This proactive approach not only incentivizes participation but also enhances Uniswap’s reputation as a platform that listens to and rewards its users.

What’s Next for Uniswap?

As the crypto world watches, Uniswap’s bold moves signal a defining moment for the DeFi ecosystem. The $35M UNI AirDrop, coupled with the imminent rollout of V4, sets the stage for Uniswap’s continued growth and influence. With the official announcement on X just around the corner, the platform is poised to capture the attention of both seasoned traders and newcomers alike.

Uniswap’s efforts to stay ahead of the curve reflect its enduring commitment to innovation and excellence in decentralized finance. As the platform continues to evolve, its impact on the global financial landscape remains unparalleled.

Contact: Matthew Elder, mediapress@uniswap.org

 

dancemoon Launches Its First PawRake Designed for Direct Use on Medium-Long Haired Pets

NEW YORK, Jan. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — dancemoon, the trailblazer in home cleaning innovation, has announced its first pet grooming brush for direct use on pets, a brand new product to the Home Pet Hair Removal Series: the dancemoon PawRake, the product will be available globally for purchase on the brand’s official website and Amazon on January 25, priced at 16.99 USD.

dancemoon PawRake
dancemoon PawRake

The dancemoon PawRake is designed to provide a solution for pet parents dealing with shedding challenges. This product aims to remove naturally metabolized undercoats and thin the hair of medium/heavy shedding cats with large amounts of heavy shedding, thus effectively reducing the amount of shedding. The dancemoon PawRake features a minimalist design for a sleek and modern look, with an ergonomic handle that optimizes maximum comfort and grooming efficiency.

When used as an undercoat removal brush, pet parents can gently comb in the direction of hair growth to eliminate loose undercoat and stray fur with ease. For detangling knots, simply pinch the base of the root with fingers and use the brush to carefully untangle, avoiding any harsh pulling on the pet’s fur.

Highlights

• Efficient Dematting and Deshedding: Designed for medium to long-haired pets, featuring 15 cat paw-inspired blades for effortlessly removing undercoats and loose fur in one stroke, reducing shedding and promoting healthy fur growth.

• Safe Design: Built-in round blades with a protective cover for safe storage. Designed to provide extra safety for pet owners and ensure a worry-free grooming experience while providing a massage-like sensation for your pet.

• Durable Material: Crafted from high-quality 420 stainless steel for long-lasting use without damage or deformation, provides a sturdy user experience without frequent replacements, saves your time and money.

• Minimalist Integrated Design: No extra screws or structural blind spots, the one-piece compact design allows for easy cleaning of hard-to-reach pet body parts, with no hair clogging for smoother grooming.

dancemoon Pet Hair Removal Series is now expanded to three products that which form a closed loop in the field of pet hair removal. From the dancemoon PawRake, which reduces loose hair and undercoat on pets, to the Layer Brush and Roller, which specializes in removing pet hair from a variety of furniture and fabrics. dancemoon offers a full range of products to meet all needs from pet hair removal on pets to daily cleaning, covering different user scenarios, and fulfilling diverse customer needs. dancemoon now provides appropriate solutions for daily pet cleaning and care. This kind of product portfolio helps consumers tackle a variety of pet care scenarios and solve hair problems in a comprehensive manner.

To place an order, please visit dancemoon’s Amazon store and Shopify.
Or follow dancemoon on social media to stay updated with the latest campaigns for the new product:

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dancemoon.official
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancemoon.global/
X: https://twitter.com/dancemoonzone
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dancemoonofficial
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dancemoonofficial

About dancemoon

Driven by a passion for innovative design, dancemoon infuses the beauty and emotion of the moon into each product. Beyond offering household tools, dancemoon combines innovation with minimalist design to create products that make household tasks simple and no longer a burden but an enjoyable part of life. With a vision to become the leading brand of minimalist lifestyle, dancemoon is committed to blending minimalism with household tools, bringing bliss into your daily life.

CONTACT: info@dancemoon.com   

Empowering Women Worldwide through Technology: #TCLforHer Wins the Prestigious Telly Award and Multiple International Marketing Honors

NEW YORK, Jan. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TCL’s brand initiative #TCLforHer has recently been making significant strides in the global market. With a strong commitment to empowering women, TCL has garnered numerous prestigious awards around the world. Recognition includes the Telly Awards, the Asian Television Awards, the ROI Festival Awards, the Effie Awards, and the Great Wall Awards.

#TCLforHer Wins the Prestigious Telly Award and Multiple International Marketing Honors
#TCLforHer Wins the Prestigious Telly Award and Multiple International Marketing Honors

The award-winning #TCLforHer 2024 marketing campaign centers around the two brand films “Our Beautiful Game” and “Echoes of Greatness”, which convey the brand’s message of empowering women through technology.

“Our Beautiful Game” conveys the spirit of soccer by highlighting three exceptional female players: Geyse Ferreira, a standout player on the Brazil Women’s Football Team; Chan Yuenting, the head coach of China’s U16 Women’s Team; and Victoria Haydn, a professional soccer photographer from the UK. Through their inspiring stories and achievements, the short film elevates TCL’s brand image while inspiring a global conversation about the status and value of women.

For International Women’s Day 2024, #TCLforHer launched a campaign featuring the TV brand film “Echoes of Greatness,” inspired by screen legend Dorothy Cumming. The short film highlights her struggles and journey in Hollywood, paying tribute to this early advocate of equality. Dorothy Cumming played a pioneering role in the 1927 film “The King of Kings,” the first movie to premiere at The Chinese Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard, known today as TCL Chinese Theatre.

The main characters and production teams of both brand films are mostly women, highlighting the significance of women narrating their own stories. By fostering empathy through shared experiences and blending universal values with various cultural backgrounds, TCL demonstrates its deep appreciation and respect for women. The films have received the Silver Telly Awards, which is one of the highest honors in the global documentary and TV brand film sectors.

#TCLforHer has made a significant impact through innovative user-generated content, brand films, short videos, and social media interactions. These efforts have achieved impressive marketing results and also fostered meaningful community engagement and positive social impact. As a result, #TCLforHer has won several awards, including the 2024 Asian Television Award for Best Brand Content, the 2024 ROI Festival Bronze Awards (International Group), the 2024 Effie Bronze Globalization Awards, and the 2024 Great Wall Awards for Excellence.

As a globally-renowned smart technology brand, TCL has been committed to “Be Global, Be Caring, Be Tech” since 2021. #TCLforHer, the first initiative in TCL’s culture-focused branding series, is now in its fourth year. It empowers women worldwide with technology, fostering an organic motivational ecosystem on the TCL platform that encourages women to support each other, grow together, and share their stories.

Ampace Joins Forces with LAFD to Battle Wildfires Rescue Missions

Ampace Donates 50 Portable Power Stations to LAFD in Support of Wildfire Rescue Operations

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As California continues to battle the devastating aftermath of wildfires, Ampace Technology has stepped forward with a crucial donation of 50 portable power stations to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), providing vital power support for firefighters working on the front lines.

Ampace Joins Forces with LAFD to Battle Wildfires Rescue Missions
Ampace Joins Forces with LAFD to Battle Wildfires Rescue Missions

Ampace’s donation is a remarkable boost for our operations,” said a firefighter at the site. “Wildfires are relentless, and our teams often operate in remote areas with no access to reliable power. These portable power stations ensure that our essential equipment stays operational during critical moments when every second counts.”

The Ampace Andes 1500, with 2400W output and 1462Wh capacity, offers a reliable power source in situations of scarcity. It supports a variety of essential needs—from powering outdoor camp lighting and cooking equipment to providing energy for medical devices and searchlights. This ensures that rescue teams don’t need to worry about power shortages in the field. The donation also includes the Ampace Andes 300 portable power station, which, weighing just 8.2 lbs, can charge smartphones, laptops, and small lighting devices. With over 20 years of expertise in battery technology, Ampace has engineered these power stations for durability and reliability under extreme conditions. Notably, both models are capable of operating in temperatures as low as -20°C(-4 ℉), ensuring that winter rescue operations remain uninterrupted by power issues.

This donation highlights Ampace‘s ongoing commitment to disaster relief and community support. “We’ve been closely monitoring the situation and wanted to contribute in a meaningful way,” said Alfonso, CMB Business Director of Ampace Andes. “Our goal is to provide the LAFD with the extra support they need in their heroic efforts to protect lives and property.”

Ampace‘s contribution not only underscores the company’s dedication to corporate social responsibility but also its resolve to be a valuable partner in times of crisis. “With Ampace‘s support, we are confident that our rescue operations will be more effective,” said firefighters on the scene. “Together, we are making a tangible difference, and we look forward to continuing our work alongside Ampace to face these challenges head-on.”

Media Contact
Xiaoning Chen
chenxn@ampacetech.com 

Cangzhou’s Huanghua Port Achieves Notable Growth as a Major Coastal Economic Hub

CANGZHOU, China, Jan. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from xinhuanet:


In 2024, Huanghua Port, located in Cangzhou, Hebei Province, underscored its growing importance in China’s maritime logistics by handling a record 355 million tons of cargo, a 7.35% increase from the previous year. This milestone marks the fifth year the port has surpassed the 300-million-ton mark, reinforcing its strategic significance in the Bohai Economic Rim.

Strategically located on China’s Bohai Bay and at the core of the Bohai Economic Rim, Huanghua Port serves as the most accessible seaport for northwest China and the central and southern areas of Hebei. It has risen as one of the country’s leading ports with extensive transport links to China’s interior and connections to major ports worldwide. The port engages in trade with over 200 ports across more than 50 countries and regions. Notably, Huanghua Port is also the world’s first fully automated bulk cargo facility, consistently ranking among the top in China’s port industry in terms of labor productivity and per capita benefits.

Strategic Expansion and Global Connectivity

Huanghua Port has opened up five new international trade routes including connections to the U.S. West Coast, India, and Pakistan, bringing the total to 20 routes. The introduction of an express container line to the U.S. West Coast last November is particularly significant, offering the quickest maritime connection from northern China to a key American economic region

Moreover, the port’s leadership convened the Cangzhou Huanghua Port-Dubai Investment and Cooperation Promotion Meeting in Dubai in May 2024, signaling a robust push towards global market integration. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to attract international partnerships and expand its influence beyond Asia.

Fostering Growth Through the Ongoing Development of Coastal Industries

The rapid development of local industries tied to the region’s proximity to the sea is driving significant economic advancements. The city of Cangzhou is actively supporting an innovative coastal economy, with efforts to enhance, expand, and strengthen the industrial chain. This initiative has attracted key projects and expanded the cluster of coastal industries, significantly contributing to regional economic growth.

Building Momentum with New Opportunities

On January 10, the inaugural 2025 Sino-Europe train service from Huanghua Port to Almaty, Kazakhstan was launched, with nine trains now regularly operating on two routes: Huanghua Port – Moscow and Huanghua Port – Almaty.

As Cangzhou Huanghua Port moves into 2025, it will solidify its status as a diverse, comprehensive, and modern major port, capitalizing on the opportunities presented by the development of the coastal economic belt. The port aims to support key industries including green chemicals, biomedicine, high-end equipment manufacturing, and modern logistics, further promoting the integration and mutual prosperity of the port and its industrial sectors.

Looking ahead, Cangzhou is focused on reinforcing its role as a resilient coastal economic hub. This includes expanding the capabilities of Huanghua Port, enhancing the productivity of local industrial clusters, and promoting competitive market practices. The city aims to boost the port’s profile on the international stage, which it believes will contribute significantly to the economic growth of northern China and the BeijingTianjinHebei region.

 

 

 

Sasakawa Leprosy Initiative to Boost Support for Indonesia

Yohei Sasakawa, WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination, Makes Announcement on World Leprosy Day 2025

TOKYO, Jan. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On the occasion of World Leprosy Day 2025 on January 26, WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination Yohei Sasakawa announces that the Sasakawa Leprosy Initiative (SLI) will increase its support to Indonesia to combat the stigma and discrimination associated with leprosy and to promote early diagnosis and treatment of the disease.

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae that mainly affects the skin and peripheral nerves. For much of its long history, the cause was unknown, giving rise to many myths and misconceptions.

Since the introduction of WHO-recommended multidrug therapy (MDT) in 1981, some 18 million people worldwide have been cured of leprosy. However, around 200,000 new cases are reported each year, and many people affected by leprosy and their families continue to face rejection based on outdated stereotypes and superstitions.

After India and Brazil, Indonesia has the third highest number of cases of leprosy in the world. In 2023, it recorded 14,376 new cases, including 1,179 children. In addition, 826 people, including 21 children, had visible disabilities at the time of diagnosis, indicating that they were diagnosed late.

Yohei Sasakawa visiting a patient at Sumberglagah Hospital, Mojokerto Regency, East Java
Yohei Sasakawa visiting a patient at Sumberglagah Hospital, Mojokerto Regency, East Java

Indonesia is one of the most important countries in the fight against leprosy,” said Sasakawa. “Overcoming stigma and discrimination and promoting early diagnosis and treatment there will be key to accelerating the world’s progress toward zero leprosy.”

He said that from this year, SLI will intensify its support for Indonesia, working with government agencies, civil society organizations, research institutes, the media and others to raise awareness of leprosy and encourage people to seek treatment if they suspect they have the disease.

SLI already supports the Indonesian Ministry of Health’s national leprosy program through the WHO, as well as providing assistance to NGOs and PerMaTa, an organization of persons affected by leprosy.

“Leprosy is a treatable disease. With appropriate and timely treatment, disabilities associated with leprosy can be prevented,” said Al Kadri, PerMaTa’s chairman. “But fear of prejudice and discrimination means that many people go undiagnosed and untreated.”

Indonesia has a comprehensive strategy to tackle leprosy, according to Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin, including public education campaigns, collaboration with tuberculosis initiatives to strengthen case detection and treatment, and support for social rehabilitation. “Through these measures, we aim to achieve a leprosy-free Indonesia, where everyone can live with dignity,” he said.

As part of its support for Indonesia’s efforts against the disease, SLI plans to identify several districts and work with local government agencies, healthcare providers and others to develop “zero leprosy” projects that can serve as models for the whole country.

About WHO Goodwill Ambassador Yohei Sasakawa

As chairman of The Nippon Foundation, Yohei Sasakawa focuses on finding solutions to humanitarian and other problems in many parts of the world, especially in Asia and Africa. For more than half a century, he has been working to eliminate leprosy, serving as WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination since 2001, and Japanese Government Goodwill Ambassador for the Human Rights of Persons Affected by Leprosy since 2007.

About Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative

Sasakawa Leprosy Initiative is a strategic alliance of WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination Yohei Sasakawa, the Sasakawa Health Foundation and The Nippon Foundation to realize a leprosy-free world. Since 1975, it has supported governments in their fight against leprosy through the WHO, contributing more than US$200 million. It has also made significant contributions to support organizations of persons affected by leprosy and has been instrumental in bringing leprosy to the attention of the United Nations, resulting in the adoption of several UN resolutions on the elimination of discrimination against persons affected by leprosy and their family members.