Nalinda Jayatissa Attends WHO Assembly; Biden Faces Cancer Diagnosis

Minister of Health Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa departs for the WHO assembly in Switzerland. Former US President Joe Biden is diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer, receiving support from political figures. The National War Heroes’ commemoration ceremony takes place today amidst special traffic plans.

Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, the Minister of Health and Mass Media, embarked on his journey to Switzerland on May 18. He is set to represent Sri Lanka at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78), organized by the World Health Organization (WHO). The assembly is scheduled to take place in Geneva from May 19 to May 27 and will revolve around the theme of “One World for Health.”

Health ministers from WHO member states will gather along with over 5,000 delegates from various health sectors globally. It is anticipated that during this assembly, there will be extensive dialogues and reviews of various proposals and research findings which are aimed at shaping global health strategies for the forthcoming year.

The Sri Lankan delegation accompanying Minister Jayatissa consists of several notable figures including Dr. Anil Jasinghe, the Health Ministry Secretary, Himali Arunathilaka, Sri Lanka’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, and Nishanthini Victor, the mission’s First Secretary. Their participation is crucial as the assembly seeks to address critical health issues on a worldwide scale.

In other news, Former US President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, according to a statement released by his office on Sunday. At 82 years old, Biden received the diagnosis after seeking medical attention for urinary symptoms.

The specific type of cancer has a Gleason score of 9, which classifies it as high-grade and indicates a fast progression of cancer cells. Biden and his family are currently exploring treatment options. Despite the severity of the cancer, it is reported to be hormone-sensitive, which might allow for effective management of the disease.

In a statement, Biden’s office said that health professionals found a nodule in his prostate after he reported concerning urinary symptoms last week. The office confirmed the diagnosis of cancer on Friday, advising of its aggressive nature while also noting the potential for management due to its hormone-sensitive classification.

Following the news, Biden has received an outpouring of support from political figures across the aisle. Former President Donald Trump expressed his sadness regarding Biden’s diagnosis, relaying warm wishes to him and his family through Truth Social. Kamala Harris, the former Vice-President under Biden, extended her prayers for his recovery on social media, expressing confidence in his resilience during this challenging time.

Barack Obama also shared his thoughts, stating he and Michelle were thinking of the Biden family. He highlighted Biden’s extensive contributions to cancer research and expressed certainty that Biden would tackle this health challenge with his usual resolve and courage. Notably, in the past, Obama entrusted Biden with leading a significant cancer research initiative aimed at finding breakthrough treatments.

Furthermore, the 16th National War Heroes’ commemoration ceremony is proceeding today, May 19. Scheduled to commence at 4:00 PM, this honorable event at the National War Hero Cenotaph in Sri Jayawardhanapura will be presided over by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

As part of the commemorative activities, a special traffic plan will be put into action around the Battaramulla area as coordinated by Sri Lanka Police. Authorities assure that there will not be any road closures. However, they have indicated that traffic may be restricted along Parliament Road amidst heavy congestion.

To alleviate traffic challenges, police have provided alternative routes. For vehicles exiting Colombo, the suggested route directs them from Polduwa Junction to Battaramulla Junction, and then to Kiyayam Junction. For incoming traffic to Colombo, the route is from Kiyayam Junction to Palam Thuna Junction and continuing accordingly. Motorists are encouraged to heed police guidance and utilize designated routes to minimize delays during this significant event.

In a separate matter, the legal representative of former Agriculture Minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage, who currently has an arrest warrant issued against him, has formally communicated with the Director General of the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC). The contents of the letter have been documented in Sinhala, which indicates ongoing legal developments in this case.

Overall, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa’s participation at the WHA78 reflects Sri Lanka’s commitment to global health discussions. Concurrently, former President Biden faces a significant health battle amid widespread support from political allies. The commemoration of National War Heroes highlights national pride and remembrance, while legal issues surrounding former Minister Aluthgamage emphasize ongoing governmental scrutiny. This week showcases a confluence of health, remembrance, and legal matters both domestically and internationally.

Original Source: srilankamirror.com