Media OutReach
Revolutionary Treatment Introduced in Hong Kong to Combat 2.4-Year Diagnosis Delay and Emotional Struggles in Vitiligo Patients
Vitiligo affects approximately 1% of the population in Hong Kong, translating to an estimated 70,000 patients. Research finds that patients receive a diagnosis after an average of 2.4 year. This prolonged diagnostic process often leads to disappointment and abandonment of treatment, resulting in significant emotional challenges; vitiligo patients are five times more likely to suffer from depression compared to the general population.
Dr Johnny Chan Chun-yin, a Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology, and Dr Rico Li Ching-kwok, a Specialist in Psychiatry, emphasize the availability of various treatment options for vitiligo. This year, a groundbreaking new medication has been introduced in Hong Kong to help patients effectively manage their condition. They encourage patients to seek medical advice early to mitigate the physical and mental burdens associated with vitiligo.
Multi-Faceted Challenges Faced by Vitiligo Patients
Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system erroneously attacks melanocytes, resulting in white patches on the skin. Multiple international studies reveal that vitiligo patients frequently encounter the following challenges:
1. Delayed Treatment Resulting from Diagnostic Challenges
International studies have found that, on average, it takes 2.4 years to receive a diagnosis, which consequently delays treatment.
2. Perception of Untreatability
Research indicates that 57% of vitiligo patients have been informed that their condition is untreatable. As a result, 44.6% of patients choose to abandon their search for effective treatment.
3. Disappointment with Current Treatments
Studies have shown that half of vitiligo patients are dissatisfied with their current treatment options, with 49% reporting that their treatments have been ineffective. Furthermore, 94% of patients express a pressing need for new and improved treatment methods.
4. High Rates of Depression
- Research indicates that over half (58.7%) of vitiligo patients experience mental health issues of different degrees, including anxiety (28.8%) and depression (24.5%).
- The likelihood of depression among vitiligo patients is five times higher than that of the general population.
The Emotional Toll of Misunderstood Conditions: Anxiety and Depression in Patients
Vitiligo not only affects appearance but also leads to significant emotional distress, which is one of the most common comorbidities among patients. Psychiatrist Dr Rico Li notes, “In recent years, I have encountered many patients experiencing emotional distress due to vitiligo. As the onset typically occurs between the ages of 10 and 30, the impact on young patients, especially females, can be profound. They are at an age where they are particularly concerned about their appearance, and often the condition appears suddenly. Diagnostic challenges and the lack of effective treatments in the past can lead to anxiety and depression.”
Dr Rico Li further explains that many patients have historically been informed that vitiligo is untreatable. Family and friends may perceive the condition as harmless, believing there is no cause for concern. “In reality, those around them may not understand the psychological pressure patients endure, which contributes to a higher likelihood of anxiety and depression among vitiligo patients and may even lead to suicidal thoughts.” He emphasizes that stress can trigger or worsen vitiligo symptoms, and if these issues are not addressed, patients may fall into a vicious cycle of worsening skin and emotional problems.
New Treatment Option Receives International Recognition
Dr Johnny Chan stated, “Vitiligo is often confused with tinea versicolor or pityriasis alba. However, doctors can accurately diagnose vitiligo through a thorough assessment of the patient’s medical history, careful evaluation of the skin, skin biopsy, blood tests, and Wood’s lamp examination.” He noted that many patients mistakenly believe that vitiligo is uncontrollable or have tried various treatment methods without significant results, which leads them to abandon treatment prematurely.
While vitiligo cannot be completely cured, there are numerous treatment options available to help improve the condition. Historically, treatments have included ultraviolet light therapy, topical corticosteroids, and oral steroids. Recently, targeted therapies such as non-steroidal topical JAK inhibitors have emerged. Dr Johnny Chan explains, “Topical JAK inhibitor Ruxolitinib cream works by blocking the immune system’s erroneous attack on melanocytes, allowing them to reactivate and gradually restore normal skin color in affected areas.”
Ruxolitinib cream is the first FDA-approved prescription topical treatment for adult and pediatric patients aged 12 and older with non-segmental vitiligo. It was officially introduced in Hong Kong this year. International studies have confirmed that topical JAK inhibitors show promising treatment performance, with approximately 30% of patients experiencing over a 75% improvement in the facial depigmentation index (F-VASI) after 24 weeks of treatment, and more than half achieving at least a 50% improvement. If treatment continues for 52 weeks, about half of the patients may see improvements of over 75%.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Vitiligo can significantly impact both the physical and mental health of patients. In light of this, Dr Johnny Chan and Dr Rico Li offer the following recommendations:
1. Timely Diagnosis
Vitiligo can easily be confused with other dermatological conditions. Patients should consult a doctor as soon as they notice unusual white patches to minimize the risk of treatment delays.
2. Public Education and Awareness
Public understanding of vitiligo is limited, making it difficult for people to appreciate the emotional impact on patients. Strengthening public education is crucial to help the community, as well as the friends and family of patients, better understand and empathize with their experiences. Support from loved ones can alleviate the worsening of skin conditions caused by emotional distress. Friends and family should encourage patients exhibiting symptoms of anxiety or depression to seek help from a psychiatrist.
3. New Treatment Brings Hope to Patients
Many patients have mistakenly believed that vitiligo is untreatable. However, recent medical advances have led to breakthroughs in treatment options, such as the use of topical JAK inhibitor Ruxolitinib cream, which is a new, internationally clinically proven treatment option with favorable therapeutic outcomes.Hashtag: #Vitiligo #AutoimmuneDisease #TopicalJAKInhibitorCream #Ruxolitinib #DrJohnnyChanChuyin #DrRicoLiChingkwok #Anxiety #Depression
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Asia and Africa’s Winners and Losers
DUBAI, UAE – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 May 2025 – A 24% crash in Brent crude prices, a 13% drop in Asian bitumen costs, and a 30% surge in Vietnam’s demand—since Donald Trump’s sweeping trade tariffs took effect on April 2, 2025, the global bitumen market has been thrust into unprecedented volatility. Infinity Galaxy, a UAE-based leader in bitumen market analysis and supply, provides critical insights into how these shifts are reshaping opportunities for suppliers and buyers across Asia and Africa.
Crude Collapse Reshapes Asia’s Bitumen Trade
Amid fears of a global recession, Brent crude oil prices dropped from around $79 to $60 per barrel from February to mid-April 2025, a decrease greater than 24%.
Simultaneously, the Singapore HSFO 180cst, the main index for Asian bitumen pricing, fell from $450/t to $390/t, down 13%. As a result, the bulk bitumen prices in Singapore dropped from around $450/t to below $400/t.
In South Korea, bitumen prices decreased from about $425/t to $395/t.
Southeast Asia experienced major changes. Vietnam boosted its bitumen consumption by up to 30% due to large-scale infrastructure and road projects. Bitumen consumption in Vietnam is expected to exceed 1.2 million tons in 2025.
In contrast, China and India saw weaker demand. In China, the yuan’s depreciation, construction slowdown, and the onset of a trade war with the US reduced domestic consumption. Also, reports mentioned China exporting bitumen to neighboring countries, further contributing to price declines across East Asia.
Tariffs Opened Africa’s Gates
The shutdown of South Africa’s “Natref refinery” brought domestic production to zero, making the country fully dependent on imports.
As a result, bitumen imports from the Middle East to South Africa surged by more than 25% during March and April 2025.
Europe’s Prices Light Dip Amid Global Shocks
Europe saw a milder decline in bitumen prices. Mediterranean bitumen prices fluctuated between $410/t and $450/t. European buyers experienced only minor changes, with most bulk deals closing at a $10 to $15 discount compared to prices before Trump’s tariff announcement.
Global Bitumen Market’s Shifts
Clear changes emerged in export routes. South Korea’s bitumen exports to Vietnam increased by about 20% in recent months, while Singapore’s market share in Vietnam declined from around 55% last year to below 45%.
On the demand side, African and Asian buyers benefited from increased supply options. Consequently, offered prices at some East African ports dropped by up to 10%, and payment terms became more favorable.
As these conditions persist, the global bitumen market is expected to undergo further volatility and adjustments throughout 2025.
Hashtag: #business #energy #commidity
https://infinitygalaxy.org/
https://www.infinitygalaxy.org/bitumen-prices. Inquiries and personalized support are available via email at 
info@infinitygalaxy.org or by telephone at +971-50-980-4849.
Following the record-breaking success of Stage 1, Mirah Investment & Development is thrilled to announce the official launch of Stage 2 sales for FINNS Bali Resort — the island’s most anticipated resort.
BALI, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 May 2025 – Located on the in the ultra-hip Berawa region in Bali, and developed in partnership with Bali’s iconic hospitality brand, FINNS Bali, this resort brings together luxury accommodation, world-class facilities, and premium investment opportunities in a one-of-a-kind setting.
Stage 1 has sold out of 88 units, making it one of the top selling developments with its launch only a few months earlier. Stage 2 continues that momentum, driven by lifestyle-focused buyers and seasoned investors eager to be part of the FINNS Bali legacy drawing strong interest from both local and international investors. With construction moving swiftly, Stage 2 now offers a limited release of suites for those who missed out on the initial launch.
Set on a prime 1.7-hectare site in Berawa, FINNS Bali Resort is a lifestyle-driven destination offering 274 hotel suites with a full spectrum of facilities for wellness, sports, recreation, family, and entertainment. Guests and owners will enjoy exclusive access to FINNS Beach Club, FINNS VIP Beach Club, and the soon-to-launch Empire Day & Night Club — a hospitality lineup unmatched anywhere else in Bali. It is set to become one of the leading holiday destinations in Bali.
A launch event was held to celebrate the Stage 2 opening, attended by industry leaders, investors, and stakeholders from FINNS Bali and Mirah Investment & Development. The evening was hosted at FINNS’ Monsoon with drinks and entertainment continuing at FINNS VIP Beach Club.
Owners will enjoy a range of exclusive privileges, including complimentary stays, preferred rates at FINNS venues, and strong passive returns generated through the resort’s operations — all backed by the unmatched performance history of the FINNS brand. Owners will be part of an exclusive owner’s community with lifestyle benefits accessible immediately. An offering unmatched on the island and with a cash annual value of around US$10,000.
Elliot Sheehan, International Sales Director, of Mirah Investment & Development has said, “we are blown away by the demand for [FINNS Bali Resort], although it should be of no surprise. The speed of sales reflects just how strong the demand is for premium, lifestyle-led investments in Bali.”
With limited availability, interested buyers are encouraged to contact the sales team at Mirah Investment & Development. For more information or to book a private consultation, visit mirahdevelopments.com or contact sales@mirahdevelopments.com
Hashtag: #Mirah #FINNS #Mirahinvestment&development #RealEstate #InvestmentProperty
https://mirahdevelopments.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mirah-investment-and-development
https://www.facebook.com/mirahgroup/
https://www.instagram.com/mirahgroup
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Mirah Investment & Development
As Bali’s leading property developer , Mirah Investment & Development are well established as the market leader with years of experience in bringing luxury developments to the most sought-after locations across the Indonesian archipelago. An extensive in-house team of locals and expatriates offer end-to-end services from architecture and design to professional property management as well as legal, taxation and immigration support.
Media OutReach
CGTN: Peng Liyuan and Brazil’s first lady visit NCPA in Beijing, vow to deepen cultural exchange
Rosangela is accompanying the Brazilian president on his state visit to China.
Peng and Rosangela appreciated the centre’s interior architecture and viewed “Stage of Glory,” an exhibition on the achievements of the NCPA, which has played a major role in China-Brazil and China-Latin America cultural and people-to-people exchanges in recent years.
They also learned about the work of the NCPA in promoting international cultural exchange and art popularization. For example, in 2023, the NCPA launched its artists’ first South American cultural exchange tour in Brazil and Argentina. In 2024, a special concert was held at the NCPA to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Brazil.
Noting that both China and Brazil are major cultural countries, Peng said that people-to-people and cultural exchange between the two sides has been active in recent years, and that mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of the two countries have deepened.
In recent years, China and Brazil have collaborated on a range of cultural exchange initiatives, including the China-Latin America Cultural Festival and film programs among BRICS nations.
Brazilian cultural icons, such as adorable capybaras, bossa nova music, samba dance and capoeira, have gained widespread popularity in China. Meanwhile, traditional Chinese celebrations like the Spring Festival and cultural treasures such as traditional Chinese medicine are becoming increasingly familiar and appreciated in Brazil.
In 2022, the City of Rio de Janeiro designated September 28 – widely recognized as Confucius’ birthday – as Mandarin Day, reflecting the deepening cultural ties between China and Brazil. Additionally, in the state of Rio de Janeiro, the Spring Festival, or Chinese New Year, has been officially recognized as a public holiday.
Bilateral cultural and people-to-people exchanges between China and Brazil were further strengthened in 2024 as the two countries celebrated the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Marking the occasion, they signed an agreement to issue 10-year multiple-entry visas for their citizens in January, facilitating business, tourism and family visits, and boosting economic and commercial ties. In April, Air China also resumed its Beijing-Madrid-Sao Paulo route, enhancing connectivity between the two nations.
A total of 76,000 Chinese tourists visited Brazil in 2024, an increase of 79 percent compared to 2023, according to Embratur, also known as the Brazilian Tourist Board.
Next year, the China-Brazil Year of Culture will be held to enhance bilateral cooperation in fields such as culture, education, tourism and media and to facilitate personnel exchanges between the two countries.
Looking ahead, Peng expressed the hope that both sides will maintain this good momentum and bring the two peoples closer.
Appreciating Peng’s arrangements, Rosangela spoke highly of China’s development and splendid culture. She also expressed her willingness to actively promote people-to-people and cultural exchanges between the two countries, and to continue contributing to the deepening of friendship between Brazil and China.
https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-05-13/Peng-Liyuan-Rosangela-visit-National-Center-for-Performing-Arts-1DlErzF0RlC/p.html
Hashtag: #CGTN
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
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