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In Short: Maryam Moshiri, a well-known BBC News anchor, has revealed her diagnosis with polycythaemia vera (PV), a rare blood cancer.
Maryam Moshiri, a prominent BBC News anchor, has disclosed her diagnosis with polycythaemia vera (PV), a rare and treatable blood cancer, according to a report from the BBC. Moshiri was diagnosed in November 2024, and her condition was detected due to her GP's thorough routine blood tests, which led to immediate further diagnosis.
In PV, the body produces an excessive number of red blood cells, making the blood thicker than normal. This condition increases the risk of blood clots, which can lead to serious health issues such as strokes, heart attacks, or deep vein thrombosis. Moshiri underwent several 'debilitating' hour-long sessions of venesections as part of her initial treatment, a procedure where blood is drawn from a vein to reduce blood thickness.
According to Blood Cancer UK, in some cases, PV can develop into other types of blood cancer, such as myelofibrosis or acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Moshiri's diagnosis highlights the importance of regular medical check-ups and the potential for early detection of such conditions.
Dr. Farrar, who recently joined the executive leadership team of PATH, a global health non-profit, is now focusing on regional health challenges. PATH aims to connect scientific innovation directly with local primary healthcare systems to improve outbreak preparedness. His appointment follows a major reorganization at WHO, where he previously served as Chief Scientist and Assistant Director-General for Health Promotion, Disease Prevention, and Care.
PATH operates on an annual budget of over $371 million and employs approximately 1,600 people across more than 70 countries. The organization's mission is to advance vaccines, diagnostics, and health system innovations, primarily funded by philanthropic foundations and public government grants. Dr. Farrar's leadership is expected to strengthen PATH's ability to work with governments and partners to deliver lasting health impact across the region.
What's still developing
- "I was told by my consultant that I have this incurable blood cancer," she said.
- “Dr Farrar joins PATH at a time when countries are increasingly seeking sustainable ways to expand access to health services and innovations,” the organisation explained in a statement to Health Policy Watch.
- He joined WHO in 2023, first as Chief Scientist, then last year taking on this position of Assistant Director-General for Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Care, under a major reorganization launched by Director General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus after the United States withdrew from the organisation, triggering a budget crisis.
- Based in Geneva, he joins the executive leadership team to accelerate the delivery of health technologies across these regions.
- Then, enter your numbers into this calculator to see which blood pressure category the reading is in.
Sources
- Newsroom link