The World Health Organization has released the latest editions of its Essential Medicines List (EML) and Essential Medicines List for Children (EMLc). These lists guide countries in selecting medicines that address the most urgent public health needs and now include treatments for cancer, diabetes, with related conditions such as obesity, as well as cystic fibrosis, hemophilia, psoriasis, and certain blood disorders. The Expert Committee reviewed 59 applications and approved 20 new medicines for adults and 15 for children, in addition to new indications for several existing products.
This brings the totals to 523 essential medicines for adults and 374 for children. Cancer remained a key focus, reflecting its role as the second leading cause of death worldwide. In line with efforts to reduce inequities in cancer care, the Committee recommended expanding access to immune checkpoint…
