Tag: CSR

Health Care

Mundipharma Donates BETADINE Anti-viral Supplies to Direct Relief to Support the Fight Against Ebola in West Africa

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— Mundipharma to provide supplies for at least two million hand washes in Ebola treatment centres

— Members of the public invited to join Mundipharma’s donation drive via “Infection Life Hacks” Facebook campaign in Singapore which will increase donations of BETADINE® to Direct Relief

SINGAPORE, Dec. 11, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Mundipharma today announces that it has partnered with Direct Relief, a leading aid organisation, to donate supplies of its BETADINE® range of anti-virals to support the aid organisation’s efforts to contain the current outbreak of Ebola in West Africa.

During this outbreak of Ebola, most of the disease has spread through human-to-human transmission.  According to World Health Organisation guidelines, hand hygiene is the most important infection prevention and control measure[1]. The WHO has recommended hand washing as a key measure in infection control since the skin is a routine source of infection transmission.

To support the guidelines, Mundipharma will donate supplies of BETADINE® to provide more than two million hand washes in the Ebola treatment centres of West Africa.

To encourage members of the public to join Mundipharma’s efforts to contain the spread of the Ebola virus, for every new “like” on the “Infection Life Hacks” Singapore Facebook page before 31 December, Mundipharma will donate a bottle of BETADINE® to Direct Relief. Infection Life Hacks is part of Mundipharma’s public awareness efforts to provide easy-to-understand medical information to the general public on relevant infection related topics from reputable sources (e.g. WHO, CDC etc.).

Raman Singh, President, Asia Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa, commented: “Mundipharma takes its responsibility to support the international aid efforts against Ebola very seriously.  We hope that our proactive approach to product donations will enable Direct Relief to continue to quickly and efficiently provide important preventative measures in limiting the outbreak of this serious and growing health issue. 

“The donation of BETADINE® is wholly consistent with our mission and commitment to improving the health and quality of life of the human race everywhere, even in the most extreme circumstances such as these and emphasises our focus on caring for those most in need.  BETADINE® has been used and trusted as an antiseptic for more than 50 years, multiple publications of BETADINE® and its general virucidal activity exist which is why we believe the BETADINE® range can play an important role in the fight against the spread of Ebola.”

“We are very pleased to partner with Mundipharma as we and our partners in West Africa continue our relentless efforts to combat Ebola at this crucial time.  Minimising the further spread of the virus is a fundamental step in our fight against Ebola and providing aid workers, healthcare professionals and the general population with a means to implement proper hand hygiene via Mundipharma’s donations will play an important role in our task,” said Thomas Tighe, Chief Executive Officer of Direct Relief.

The supplies of BETADINE® Surgical Scrub and BETADINE® Scalp & Skin Cleanser donated by Mundipharma are medicated soaps containing povidone iodine, a well-known antiviral, to provide hand disinfection even in areas without access to clean running water.

The Ebola virus is frequently found in saliva in the early course of disease and close face-to-face contact without appropriate personal protective equipment (including eye protection) has been rated as moderate risk to acquire Ebola virus by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control[2]. In addition to protecting the hands, mouth and nose, “gargling” with the donated supplies of BETADINE® Mouth Wash & Gargle and BETADINE® Throat Spray can disrupt the transmission of the virus via saliva by reducing germ count at the pharynx.

BETADINE® has demonstrated strong efficacy against enveloped viruses and sufficient efficacy against non-enveloped viruses and its use to contain the spread of Ebola has already been endorsed by the Australian Department of Health and Ageing[3].

The donation is one of a number of initiatives currently being implemented by Mundipharma employees globally in a proactive drive to address the rising medical needs of Ebola patients. 

[1] (WHO, August 2014).

[2] (ECDC, 2014).

[3] (Australian Government Department of Health, Guidelines for laboratories associated with a designated isolation hospital, October 2014).

BETADINE® is a Registered Trademark.

About Mundipharma

The Mundipharma network of independent associated companies consists of privately owned companies and joint ventures covering the world’s pharmaceutical markets. These companies are committed to bringing to patients the benefits of pioneering treatment options in the core therapy areas of oncology, pain, respiratory and rheumatoid arthritis.  www.mundipharma.com.sg

About Direct Relief

Direct Relief is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that provides medical assistance to people around the world who have been affected by poverty, natural disasters, and civil unrest. Thanks to generous material and financial contributions from individuals, pharmaceutical companies, and medical equipment manufacturers, Direct Relief can work with healthcare professionals and organizations on the ground and equip them with the essential medical supplies and equipment that they need to help people recover from a disaster.

Direct Relief’s assistance programs are tailored for the particular circumstances and needs of those who have suffered from the effects of natural and man-made disasters. Direct Relief also establishes partnerships with local organizations to provide health services to people in rural areas of a country that are poor and lack basic healthcare infrastructure.

ENT Health Care

DFS and Twelve Celebrity Ambassadors Grant Wishes This Holiday Season

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“JOY TO YOUR WORLD” CHARITY CAMPAIGN, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MAKE-A-WISH(R)INTERNATIONAL, TO BRING HAPPINESS AND HOPE

HONG KONG, Dec. 9, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — DFS Group (DFS), the world’s leading luxury travel retailer, today launches an exceptional charity campaign in partnership with the world’s largest wish-granting organization, Make-A-Wish®. The “Joy To Your World” campaign features a star-studded line-up of twelve celebrity ambassadors from Asia, who will help to grant wishes to children who are battling life-threatening illnesses.

Until December 25, DFS and the celebrity ambassadors will invite the public to unite and share their joy in support of those most in need during the holiday season. To participate in this campaign, follow @DFSOfficial on Instagram and Facebook and #JoyToYourWorld.

“We are honoured and excited to partner with Make-A-Wish this year in support of children in need. DFS is committed to giving back to the communities where we live and work, and we believe it is especially important during the holiday season to bring joy to those in need,” says Philippe Schaus, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DFS Group.

The mission of Make-A-Wish is to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. Since its inception in 1980, Make-A-Wish has collectively granted the wishes of more than 334,000 children in nearly 50 countries.

The twelve celebrity ambassadors partnering with DFS are Aaron Kwok, actor and singer (Hong Kong/China), Beni, singer (Japan), Bonnie Chen, model (China), Carina Lau, actress (Hong Kong/China), Chi-Lam Cheung, actor and singer (Hong Kong/China), Denise Keller, TV host (Singapore), Donnie Yen, actor (Hong Kong/China), Michele Reis, actress (Hong Kong/China), Rosamund Kwan, actress (Hong Kong/China), Tsubasa Masuwaka, model (Japan), Yusuke Iseya, actor and director (Japan), and Zi-Lin Zhang, Miss World 2007 (China).

Donation boxes have also been placed in 13 DFS stores around the world until December 26 to encourage public participation:

  • T Galleria by DFS, Hong Kong, Causeway Bay
  • T Galleria by DFS, Hong Kong, Canton Road
  • T Galleria by DFS, Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui East
  • DFS, Hong Kong International Airport
  • T Galleria by DFS, Macau, City of Dreams
  • T Galleria by DFS, Macau, Shoppes at Four Seasons
  • T Galleria by DFS, Singapore
  • DFS Galleria Bali — Denpasar
  • DFS Galleria Cairns
  • DFS Galleria Sydney
  • DFS Galleria Auckland
  • DFS, Auckland Airport
  • T Galleria by DFS, Okinawa
Health Care

LKK Health Products Group: Dedicated to Public Health

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GUANGZHOU, China, Nov. 28, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — On 15 November, Infinitus 2014 World Walking Day, the popular nationwide walking activity in the Chinese mainland, ended successfully with the last leg in Hangzhou.

Photo: http://www.infinitus-int.com/news-detaile-141708062056027.html?l=en

Early in 1992, walking was defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the “best exercise in the world”. At present, walking has become the exercise enjoyed by most people in many western developed countries. For example, over 80 million people participate in walking activities in North America. British law even clarifies that everyone is entitled to walk and thus requires a walking lane to be included in every road.

In late October the State Council of China released the report Several Opinions on Accelerating the Development of the Sports Industry and Promoting Sports Consumption, which raised the nationwide fitness campaign to the level of national strategy and made improving people’s physique and raising their health level as the fundamental goal. In addition, daily fitness activities were encouraged with huge support to exercises like running and walking.

In 2010, Infinitus World Walking Day was introduced to the Chinese mainland by Infinitus (China) Company Ltd., member of LKK Health Products Group (LKKHPG), and the General Administration of Sport of China. Since then the event has been held for over 60 sessions in more than 20 cities and set two Guinness World Records. More than 760,000 citizens have participated and the total walking distance has exceeded 4.3 million kilometres.

Given the increasing popularity of the event in the Chinese mainland, LKKHPG has decided to further promote walking on a global scale. In August of this year, LKKHPG joined hands with MCMIA Foundation and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council in initiating the “Infinitus Daily Walk for 10,000 Steps” Campaign in Hong Kong, and advocated people from Hong Kong and abroad to nurture healthier lives through “daily walking for 10,000 steps”.

The pursuit of a healthy life has become ubiquitous. According to a global survey by the WHO, only 5% of the world population are healthy in accordance with the WHO’s health standards, while 75% are in sub-health condition. Due to environmental deterioration, the fast pace of modern life and social pressures, the percentage of people in sub-health condition across the total population is escalating, which breeds the global health trend of “concentration on prevention of illness and health maintenance” that changes from “concentration on treatment”.

Mr. Harry Yeung, Senior Vice President of LKKHPG, said, “Since our establishment in 1992, we have been promoting the TCM life-nurturing wisdom of ‘Preventive Treatment of Disease’ and advocating daily prevention and health maintenance. We hope to assist the public in nurturing healthier lifestyles through the promotion of premium Chinese health regimen. For instance, Infinitus World Walking Day aims to help people form healthy life habits and the belief that walking brings along health.”

With “Infinitus” as the core brand, LKKHPG adheres to its mission of “advocating the premium Chinese health regimen and nurturing healthier lives with balance, affluence, and harmony”, and is dedicated to providing the public with high-quality TCM health products and services.

It creates the unique health philosophy that originated from the premium Chinese health regimen with two thousand years’ history: “promoting healthy life through life nurturing and vitality assurance”. To make it more easily understood for practices, LKKHPG formulated a set of guidance called “Missing Link of Four Regulations” earlier this year:

  • Diet: More vegetable less meat, eat until 70% full
  • Living: Power nap for 20 minutes and sleep before 23:00
  • Exercise: Daily walk for 10,000 steps
  • Emotion: Positive thinking

Through regular lectures on life-nurturing, health camps and so on, LKKHPG strives to deepen public awareness of health concepts, such as the “Four Regulations”, and help them nurture various easy-to-follow life-nurturing habits in order to cope with challenges from the natural environment and the pressures of modern life and keep healthy through regulation of immunity.

Contact:

Samson Su
+86-20-3816-8859
samson.su@infinitus-int.com

ENT Fashion GAM MEN

NetDragon Jointly Organizes 2014 Strait Wisdom Education Forum and Education Informatization Technology Conference

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HONG KONG, Nov. 27, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — NetDragon Websoft Inc. (“NetDragon”, Stock Code: 777), a leading developer and operator of online game and mobile Internet platforms in China, today announced that it successfully organized the 2014 Strait Wisdom Education Forum and Education Informatization Technology Conference in conjunction with East China Normal University on 25th November, 2014 at the Company’s Haixi Animation Creativity City in Fujian, China. The conference was endorsed by the National Education Information Technology Standards Committee, China’s Ministry of Education and the National Information Technology Standardization Committee.

Mr. Luyuan Liu, Chief Executive Officer of NetDragon commented, “The conference focused on the theme of smart Education in the Mobile Internet and Big Data Era in which educational reform can create new educational models, create paradigms for futuristic classroom and establish an ecosystem centered on the electronic bag. I am pleased to say that this was the most successful conference we have ever organized. The conference attracted a record number of participants, clients and business partners from over 14 provinces. We are honored to have had government officials and industry professionals attend from across China, Hong Kong and Taiwan. The education information industry developed rapidly in 2014. NetDragon has been following these trends closely and is ideally positioned to participate in the formulation of an education information system in order to speed up the roll-out of the education business with our unique mobile internet education platform. The successful organization of the Cross-Strait Smart Education Summit demonstrates NetDragon’s capability in the online education industry, the high recognition by the industry and at the same time shows NetDragon’s commitment to China’s online education sector and our efforts to participate in the formulation of the industry’s standards. The summit also plays an important role for NetDragon for rolling out the “Fair Education” strategy.

NetDragon is a leading force in China’s online education industry. NetDragon has been focusing its attention on the development of education information technology. The Company established Fujian Huayu Education Science and Technology Co., Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary in 2010. In recent years, the Company cooperated with Foxconn Technology Group to develop an educational tablet, Xinhuanet to develop a learning platform for its higher education business, and various Chinese universities and educational institutions to develop learning platforms and courses that combine big data analysis, cloud computing technology and gaming systems. In 2013, NetDragon formed a strategic partnership with East China Normal University, Beijing Normal University and Huazhong Normal University and worked with People’s Education Press on developing a unique innovative mobile education platform to support the National Science and Technology program – Research on key technology in developing education resources digital publishing and application.

The conference not only attracted a great attention from the general public and industry professionals, but also won high praises from community leaders and the media. As an organizer, NetDragon demonstrated its commitment to developing the education industry and strengthening its national and international influence. Industry experts and scholars shared their insights and experiences on deepening educational reform, advancing educational information, and building a learning community.

About NetDragon
NetDragon Websoft Inc. (HKSE: 0777) is a leading innovator and creative force in China’s mobile internet industry. Established in 1999, NetDragon is a vertically integrated, cutting-edge R&D powerhouse with a highly successful track record which includes the development of flagship MMORPGs such as Eudemons Online and Conquer Online, China’s number one online gaming portal, 17173.com, and China’s most influential smartphone app store platform, 91 Wireless, which was sold to Baidu in what was at the time the largest internet M&A transaction in China in 2013. Being a China’s pioneer in overseas expansion, NetDragon directly operates a number of game titles in over 10 languages internationally since 2003. NetDragon continues to strive for developing mobile games and software applications for users. In recent years, NetDragon has also becoming a major player in China’s online and mobile education industry as it works to leverage its mobile internet technologies and operational know-how to make fun and effective learning tools.

ENT Fashion

Sofitel Shanghai Hyland Presents A Magnifique Journey

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Dual 50Th Anniversary Celebration For Sofitel and For Sino-french Relations

SHANGHAI, Nov. 19, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Sofitel Shanghai Hyland was delighted to present A Magnifique Journey on November 11th (Tuesday) 2014 as part of the China tour to celebrate Sofitel’s successful first half-century and the flourishing relationship between France and China during the same time-frame. Music, dance, theatre and strong visual images transported audiences on A Magnifique Journey through five decades and between two continents.

Sofitel Shanghai Hyland presents A Magnifique Journey

Sofitel Shanghai Hyland presents A Magnifique Journey

Nostalgia, romance, glamour, colour, humour, digital images and more than a little theatrical magic combined in a fast-paced music and dance spectacular that contained something for everyone in 45 minutes. The Hotel’s Ballroom was transformed into a theatre space with 170 invited guests included Sofitel guests, partners and loyalty members.

This show was staged in Guangzhou and Nanjing recently, and then it shall continue to move on to another 5 Sofitel hotels after Shanghai, including Xian, Jinan, Chongqing, Chengdu and Macau as a finale on November 25th.

Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich – November 4th, 2014

Sofitel Nanjing Zhongshan Golf Resort – November 9th, 2014

Sofitel Shanghai Hyland – November 11th, 2014

Sofitel Xian on Renmin Square – November 13th, 2014

Sofitel Jinan Silver Plaza – November 15th, 2014

Sofitel Forebase Chongqing – November 19th, 2014

Sofitel Chengdu Taihe – November 21st, 2014

Sofitel Macau At Ponte 16 – November 25th, 2014

About the Programme

A Magnificent Journey incorporated all the arts in a series of vignettes that used various genres from jazzy steps to contemporary ballet against an eclectic selection of music that linked the very different world of the sixties to present-day in China and France. Stars of the show were French-Chinese singer and actress, Lou Wong, winner of many awards; and Anthony Esteve-Chuecos, multi-talented Parisian dancer and actor. 

Artistic Director Lisa Souissa is also a choreographer with a strong background in performing art and management. She is a veteran instructor of contemporary ballet for major international production companies including Cirque du Soleil and Dragone Entertainment Group. Technical Director Jason Graham has had wide experience from major sporting events to large-scale theatrical productions and touring shows. Currently he is the Sound Department Head for The House of Dancing Water in Macau.

The performers played multiple roles as this fast-paced production transported the audience from a fashionable pavement café in 1960s in Paris to some of China’s most beautiful scenic and historic regions. Next stop found them is St Tropez in the South of France, in the exhilarating and highly competitive world of a French show business audition. The action returned to China for the closing celebration which combined music and dance to express Sofitel’s successful fusion of the best of Chinese and French tradition.

Sofitel Celebrates Art & Culture

Since the beginning, Sofitel’s corporate culture has been inspired by the French art de vivre. The company’s three strategic pillars include design and innovation, the celebration of fine food and wine and, last but not least, the passion for culture and events. “It is an essential part of the Sofitel way of life to celebrate the company’s French heritage through cultural events linked to literature, fashion and art,” commented Michel Molliet, Vice President of Sofitel Greater China. “After two successive years of popular Musique Littéraire productions, we created something even more ambitious for this dual golden anniversary of Sofitel’s founding and the establishment of formal cultural links between France and China. Our guests have come to expect a culturally enriching experience when they stay in one of our hotels and I am happy that this Magnifique Journey brought a memorable and entertaining evening to our guests.”

Sofitel, World Class Hotels & French Elegance

Sofitel is the only French luxury hotel brand with a presence on five continents with 120 addresses, in almost 40 countries (more than 30,000 rooms). Sofitel offers contemporary hotels and resorts adapted to today’s more demanding and more versatile consumers who expect and appreciate beauty, quality and excellence. Whether situated in the heart of a major city like Paris, London, New York, Shanghai or Beijing, or nestled away in a country landscape in Morocco, Egypt, French Polynesia or Thailand, each Sofitel property offers a genuine experience of the French “art de vivre”.

Sofitel Legend and & Sofitel So are two labels that come to enrich Sofitel Luxury hotels.

Sofitel Legend hotels are iconic and mythical; they are often centuries-old listed heritage buildings: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam and Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena and Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel Xian.

Sofitel So hotels are new « boutique hotels » characterized by a stylish focus on contemporary design by famous architects and/or embellished by international celebrities from the world of fashion, design or art: Sofitel So Mauritius Bel Ombre, Sofitel So Bangkok and Sofitel So Singapore.

Find out more about Sofitel at www.sofitel.com

Photo – http://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20141118/0861408681

ENT Fashion

CGAP Announces Winner of 2014 Photo Contest

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WASHINGTON, Nov. 17, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — The first prize winner of the 2014 CGAP Photo Contest is Soh Yew Kiat of Malaysia. A panel of three judges selected his photo, “Cormorant Fisherman,” from a record number of 4,820 entries from professional and amateur photographers in 95 countries. The winning photo depicts a man in China practicing the vanishing craft of cormorant fishing – a traditional technique thousands of years old that involves training birds to catch fish.

To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click: http://www.multivu.com/players/English/7267351-cgap-financial-inclusion-photo-contest-winners-2014/

The annual CGAP Photo Contest, which was launched in 2006, aims to highlight stand-out photography depicting financial inclusion around the world. Through strong photography, CGAP showcases the different ways in which poor households manage their financial lives and raises awareness about the importance of formal financial services for people at the base of the economic pyramid.

The judges selected “Cormorant Fisherman” because of the poetic and evocative way it tells a story. Cormorant fishermen, like the one in the photo, are typically involved in the tourism industry and their businesses benefit greatly from easier access to financial services.

“The photo captured a timeless image, paired with a modern story,” explained Meghan Dhaliwal, Multimedia Projects Coordinator for the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting. “It’s mythical-looking, and his clothes mirror the shape created by the wings of the bird,” she added.

In addition to the compelling story behind the winning image, the judges said it was technically excellent. “The focus is on the fisherman, but the viewer can still see the beautiful details of the background,” said Indira Williams Babic, Senior Manager of Visual Resources for the Newseum.

The 2014 Grand Prize is a $2,000 gift certificate for photography equipment.

A full gallery of the 30 winning photos can be viewed at www.cgap.org/photocontest.

The judges also selected second and third place winners as well as 27 regional winners, finalists, and special mentions, which were chosen for both technical excellence and depiction of the stories and faces behind financial inclusion. Jeanette Ortiz-Osorio, Manager of Photo and Digital Assets for the American Red Cross, was particularly taken by the third prize winner from Tanzania. She noted that the image, entitled “Smallholder”, taken by Hailey Tucker, was dynamic: “You can tell that the woman in the photo has a tough life, but in that moment she is completely in control.”

A popular vote on CGAP.org determined a People’s Choice winner: “Golden Dusk,” submitted by Vishal Singh, of India. The picture depicts a boatman leading a sightseeing tour at Konark beach in Odisha, India. According to Singh, a nongovernmental organization provided the tour guide with his boat, which affords him his livelihood and the ability to support his family. The photo received 1,393 votes.

The 2014 panel of judges consisted of Indira Williams Babic, Senior Manager of Visual Resources at the Newseum, Jeanette Ortiz-Osorio, Manager of Photo and Digital Assets for The Red Cross, and Meghan Dhaliwal, Multimedia Projects Coordinator for The Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting.

Photo –

http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20141115/158839

Health Care

Tianjin and Shanghai Join Cities Changing Diabetes on World Diabetes Day

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BAGSVÆRD, Denmark, Nov. 14, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Today, on World Diabetes Day, the Chinese cities of Tianjin and Shanghai join the Cities Changing Diabetes initiative and the global fight against the urban diabetes epidemic. These two major metropolitan centres are the first Chinese cites to become part of the global partnership programme, which was initiated in Mexico City in March 2014, followed by Copenhagen in Europe and Houston in the United States last week.

To view the Multimedia News Release, please click:

http://www.multivu.com/players/English/7377451-novo-nordisk-shanghai-diabetes

New numbers released today estimate 387 million people worldwide have diabetes today and more than two thirds hereof live in urban areas[1]. Globally, those who live in cities are two to five times more likely to have type 2 diabetes[2]. Cities Changing Diabetes is a first-of-its-kind collaboration to gather public and private partners to identify practical long-term solutions. The programme seeks to understand the root causes behind the rise in type 2 diabetes in cities and use that knowledge to share and recommend effective interventions.

Diabetes in Tianjin and Shanghai

With 96 million people with diabetes, China has one of the highest rates of diabetes in the world[3]. More than half of the people with diabetes live in cities, and Shanghai and Tianjin rank among the largest urban areas in China. Tianjin’s population has doubled since 1995 to around 11 million people[4] and an estimated 9.5% now suffering from diabetes[5]. In Shanghai, with a population of 23.8[6] million people, it is estimated that 12.6% have diabetes[7].

The People’s Municipal Government of Shanghai and the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Health and Family Planning are committed to tackle the growing urban diabetes challenge. As a consequence, the city is taking active measures to increase the focus on prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases. Shanghai therefore welcomes relevant input based on academic research and innovative partnerships.

In Tianjin, the government is very committed to promoting a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet, which are key factors in tackling type 2 diabetes. The Cities Changing Diabetes initiative fits well into the National Health and Planning Commission’s agenda and will support other initiatives to halt the progress of type 2 diabetes.

The Tianjin Medical Association and the Shanghai Diabetes Institute will lead the initial research for Cities Changing Diabetes in collaboration with the global academic institution, University College London (UCL) from the UK.

“The Cities Changing Diabetes partnership will provide a solid foundation for identifying future initiatives of high impact to tackle urban diabetes in Shanghai” said Professor Jia Weiping of the Shanghai Diabetes institute.

“I am confident the city of Tianjin will benefit significantly in the fight against type 2 diabetes by participating in Cities Changing Diabetes” said Mr. Xiong Zhi, Secretary General of the Tianjin Medical Association.

Lars Rebien Sørensen, chief executive officer of Novo Nordisk, welcomed the global leadership the two significant cities are showing in the fight against urban diabetes: “It is my hope that by working in partnership through Cities Changing Diabetes, we can complement and support the cities’ objective to reduce the growing type 2 diabetes burden and tackle this urgent problem.”

About Cities Changing Diabetes

Cities Changing Diabetes is an ambitious partnership programme to fight the urban diabetes challenge. According to new numbers released today by the International Diabetes Federation, IDF, it is estimated that 592 million will have diabetes by 2035. Today, nearly two-thirds of all people with diabetes live in cities, and people who move to cities have a significantly higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than those who remain in rural settings.

The aim of Cities Changing Diabetes is to map the problem in selected urban areas, to share learning and solutions and to drive action to fight the diabetes challenge in cities across the world. University College London (UCL) is the global academic partner for the programme that also includes Steno Diabetes Center, a world-leading institution in diabetes care and prevention in Denmark, and Novo Nordisk.

For more information, visit Cities Changing Diabetes – see also Facebook and Twitter

About World Diabetes Day

Every 14 November, Novo Nordisk partners with the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) in support of the United Nations Resolution on Diabetes. On this day, employees, partners, people with diabetes and the general public unite with a call to change diabetes.

The date, 14 November, was chosen because it is the birthday of Frederick Banting who, along with Charles Best, first conceived the idea which led to the discovery of insulin in 1921. Since the adoption of the United Nations Resolution on diabetes in December 2006, World Diabetes Day has become an official United Nations World Health Day.

Read more about the campaign driven by the International Diabetes Federation

For more information on World Diabetes Day 2014 and to join the fight against urban diabetes, visit http://bit.ly/urbanwdd or follow @NovoNordisk and use #UrbanDiabetes and/or #WDD2014 online.

About Novo Nordisk

Headquartered in Denmark, Novo Nordisk is a global healthcare company with more than 90 years of innovation and leadership in diabetes care. The company also has leading positions within haemophilia care, growth hormone therapy and hormone replacement therapy. Novo Nordisk employs approximately 41,000 employees in 75 countries, and markets its products in more than 180 countries. For more information, visit http://novonordisk.com.

Visit novonordisk.com for photos and b-roll supporting this press release.

1.

International Diabetes Federation. IDF Diabetes Atlas, 6th edn. Brussels, Belgium: International Diabetes Federation, 2014 update.

2.

Mbanya JC et al. Diabetes in sub-Saharan Africa. Lancet 2010; 375(9733):2254-2266

3.

International Diabetes Federation. IDF Diabetes Atlas, 7th edn. Brussels, Belgium: International Diabetes Federation, 2014.

4.

United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, World Urbanization Prospects, the 2014 Revision

5.

Xu W. et al. Detection of Prediabetes and Undiagnosed Type 2 Diabetes: A Large Population-Based Study, Can J of Diabetes 2012 (36):108-113

6.

United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, World Urbanization Prospects, the 2014 Revision.

7.

Li, R, Increasing Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes in Chinese Adults in Shanghai, Diabetes Care 35:1028-1030, 2012

Further information

Media:
Katrine Sperling
+45-3079-6718
krsp@novonordisk.com

Video – http://www.multivu.com/players/English/7377451-novo-nordisk-shanghai-diabetes/
Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120911/559804

Health Care

Paul G. Allen Extends Tackle Ebola Effort to Address Plight of Children Orphaned by Ebola

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— Largest Private Grant to Save the Children Will Provide Urgent Care for Orphans in Liberia; Gift Is Part of $100 Million Commitment to Fight Ebola Crisis

SEATTLE, Nov. 14, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Philanthropist Paul G. Allen today announced a multi-million dollar grant aimed at addressing one of the most tragic outcomes of the Ebola crisis in Liberia: the care of children orphaned by the virus. According to UNICEF, at least 3,700 children in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone have lost one of their parents to Ebola so far this year. The challenges facing these orphans will impact their young lives for decades.

Mr. Allen is committing $6.6 million to support Save the Children’s efforts to provide health care, comfort and education to Liberia’s children. The funding also covers community awareness programs aimed at preventing further spread of the virus. The grant is part of Paul G. Allen’s commitment to funding at least $100 million in programs to tackle the Ebola crisis. Mr. Allen’s grant is the largest private donation Save the Children has received for its Ebola response to date.

To view video and photos from Save the Children’s work in West Africa please visit: http://www.tackleebola.com/toolkit-save-the-children.html.

Children are experiencing family member losses and separation at an alarming rate as their parents are admitted for treatment. Many are confined to their homes; yet others, while having survived the virus, are left without possessions or shelter. These young victims of the Ebola crisis often end up alone and ostracized by their communities who remain fearful of infection.

Save the Children has had a strong program presence in West Africa for more than 20 years. They quickly began mobilizing a response to the Ebola outbreak in Liberia to reach children and adults. Mr. Allen’s grant will advance the following actions in Liberia:

  • The protection of vulnerable children affected by Ebola: Mr. Allen’s support will help protect Ebola impacted children from abuse, exploitation, violence and neglect. Psychological and psychosocial treatment will be offered, and family tracing and reunification services will be provided for those orphaned. There will also be follow up on the placement of children to ensure their well-being.
  • The implementation of emergency education programs: According to UNICEF, Ebola-related school closures in Liberia have left nearly one million school-aged children without a structured learning program. Save the Children will initiate emergency education programs and adapt their proven literacy and numeracy education packages to help communities support children’s learning. These programs will continue after schools reopen, ensuring a longer-lasting impact.
    In addition, radio-based education programming will enable students to learn while schools remain closed. Home-learning programming will provide psychological support and hygiene messaging to prevent the spread of the virus.
  • Support Ebola Community Care Centers: Save the Children is constructing and operating Ebola Community Care Centers to provide “close to the community” care. They will convert existing spaces in affected communities to facilities to be used to isolate and observe and provide services for suspected, probable and confirmed Ebola cases. The centers are expected to reduce the burden on Ebola treatment units by providing essential help in the form of equipment and supplies, and to construct, manage and operate additional centers. The first center will open this week in Liberia with a total of ten opening in the next two months.
  • Increased community awareness activities: Effective communication is crucial to stopping the spread of Ebola. Mr. Allen’s donation will fund an increase in community awareness and sensitization activities across Liberia. This will entail media engagement for people near Ebola Treatment Units and Ebola Care Centers. Additionally, Save the Children is working with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education in Liberia to ensure Ebola prevention materials are available in the schools that remain open.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Liberia has been the country most affected by the current Ebola outbreak. WHO reports that as of November 5, 2014, Liberia has recorded 6,525 confirmed, probable, or suspected Ebola cases and 2,697 deaths from the virus.

Supporting Quotes:

“The long term impact of Ebola will be severe unless we take the right steps,” said Mr. Allen. “We must focus on solutions that will build permanent infrastructure to provide lasting support for the people of West Africa. Children are the most vulnerable of this population and the work Save the Children is doing will provide critical care and education essential to ensuring a healthy future for these young victims of the crisis.”

“During my recent trip to Liberia, I saw firsthand the impact the deadly Ebola virus is having on children, families and communities,” said Carolyn Miles, president & CEO of Save the Children. “The daily increase in the number of orphans is particularly alarming. The support we receive from Mr. Allen will enable Save the Children to give more patients the immediate care they so desperately need, and can help to prevent the tragic loss so many families are experiencing.”

Mr. Allen’s Contributions to Date:

From the early days of the outbreak, Mr. Allen and the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation have focused on finding, funding and coordinating strategic solutions that address the most critical needs of those affected. Mr. Allen has also created TackleEbola.com to provide an easy way for individuals to contribute to specific organizations and fund critical response needs.

For more information and a complete list of Mr. Allen’s contributions, visit www.tackleebola.com and follow @TackleEbola and @PaulGAllen on Twitter or Facebook.

Press Contacts:

Alexa Rudin
Vulcan Inc.
+1-206-342-2230
alexar@vulcan.com

Dana Lengkeek
Burson-Marsteller
+1-415-994-4008
dana.lengkeek@bm.com

Wendy Christian
Save the Children
+1-203-465-8010
wchristian@savechildren.org

Phil Carroll
Save the Children
+1-267-992-6356
pcarroll@savechildren.org

Health Care

Changing Tomorrow Day 2014 Marks Astellas’ Fifth Annual Global Service Initiative

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– More than 6,000 employees worldwide have already completed over 13,000 hours of volunteer service in their communities

TOKYO, Nov. 4, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Astellas Pharma Inc. (headquarters: Tokyo; president & CEO: Yoshihiko Hatanaka) announced for the fifth consecutive year, Astellas Group’s global volunteer initiative known as Changing Tomorrow Day that will engage its employees worldwide to enhance the sustainability of society through participation in local volunteer activities through March 2015. Today, Ken Jones, Astellas Pharma EMEA president and CEO, along with local employees, will teach healthy cooking classes at a school in Staines, England for the fourth straight year. The healthy cooking class is for children aged 5-7 and is designed to engage their minds and taste buds on the importance of nutritious meals. Astellas also financially supports the school’s nutritious eating cooking club for families.

To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click http://www.multivu.com/players/English/7302351-changing-tomorrow-day-2014-marks-astellas-pharma-fifth-annual-global-service-initiative/

Photo –  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20141104/156419 

As of Nov. 4, more than 6,000 employees across Japan, Asia/Oceania, the Americas and Europe have completed over 13,000 hours of service at hundreds of locations such as hospitals, family shelters, parks, food banks, elderly care facilities, community centers and schools where they engaged in projects to support the themes of health and the environment.

Dr. Kenji Yasukawa, senior vice president, chief strategy officer, chairman of the corporate social responsibility (CSR) committee at Astellas, said, “Astellas is proud to be celebrating the fifth anniversary of Changing Tomorrow Day as we encourage our employees to provide support and contribute to the sustainable development of society and local communities to which we belong. As a good corporate citizen, Astellas will continue to actively engage in initiatives to support the health of people around the world.”

Below are examples of initiatives already completed:

  • Astellas Korea Pharma, Inc. kicked off this year’s activities on April 1 by returning to Yangjae Citizens’ Park in Seoul with its 263 employees to clean up debris and leaves.
  • On June 11, almost 1,400 Astellas Pharma US employees painted, built furniture and improved the grounds at Give Kids the World: a 70-acre resort in Florida that provides free vacations to children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. See press release.
  • In Europe, between the months of June and September, more than 100 employees organized sports days with local schools leading children in exercises to promote healthy, holistic development.
  • On July 14, employees in Saitama, Japan removed foreign plants from Kamitani-numa pond to conserve its biodiversity and help sustain the environment for Yoshikiri: a small bird that nests in the reed.
  • Despite extreme heat, on Aug. 1, a total of 291 employees in Tokyo performed their annual community street clean up and expanded to new areas around popular historical sites in Nihonbashi. The group collected an impressive 69.4 kg of waste.
  • On Sept. 12, more than 400 employees near the US headquarters participated in the transformation of Dunning Read Conservation Area in Chicago. Employees removed invasive plants, planted trees, reinforced the walking trail, created artwork and began the construction of an outdoor shelter. Simultaneously, 114 employees throughout Brazil completed activities at 17 locations, including donating health supplies, visiting the elderly and people with physical challenges, general maintenance of facilities and leading activities for kids.
  • On Sept. 19, students and teachers in Beijing visited the Astellas Pharma China office for “Job Shadow Day” where a team of employees provided the young students an up-close demonstration of how skills learned in school translate to the workplace.
  • Over 100 employees across Canada gathered on Sept. 29 to volunteer at food banks, paint community centers, clean up parks and serve warm meals to disadvantaged youth and homeless families.

On Oct. 28, 2014, the Changing Tomorrow Day volunteering initiative received a Silver award for ‘Best community involvement during a CSR program’ at the United Kingdom’s Corporate Engagement Awards.

About Astellas
Astellas is a pharmaceutical company dedicated to improving the health of people around the world through the provision of innovative and reliable pharmaceutical products. Astellas has approximately 18,000 employees worldwide. For additional information and to learn more about Astellas’ corporate social responsibility program, please visit our website at www.astellas.com/en.