Browsing: IVF

Health Rounds: A study in mice suggested transplanting eggs from older ovaries into younger tissue could rejuvenate them and improve IVF outcomes. Researchers found a gene variant that protects some babies from jaundice by better processing bilirubin. A trial demonstrated Exelixis’ Cabometyx extended progression-free survival for patients with advanced pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours resistant to other treatments.

Fertility rates in ASEAN nations are plunging, with half the region already facing a ‘baby bust’ – a situation where there are insufficient children to maintain the population size. The total fertility rate (TFR), an indicator of population growth, has tumbled from 5.5 in 1970 to 2.11 in 2017, according to data from the World Bank. A dwindling youth population could spell dire economic consequences for the region. The shift from quantity to quality, increased urbanisation, and a surge in women seeking higher education and career opportunities are amongst the reasons behind the steep decline.