Swine flu outbreak, cervical cancer vaccine campaigns, and numerous marathons are only some of the events that happened in 2009.  But before all these (and more) become history, allow this writer to give you, our avid readers, a quick rundown of the top health stories that made it to the headlines.

Pandemic proportions

Despite precautionary measures, the A(H1N1) virus or Swine flu hit Manila in May and left people in panic until late June.  The spread of the disease was highly alarming that it even threatened school opening.  Thank God, it’s over now!  Meanwhile, the latest update from the World Health Organization (WHO) revealed 208 countries and overseas territories or communities with confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1, including at least 11516 deaths.  WHO is actively monitoring the progress of the pandemic through frequent consultations with the WHO Regional Offices and member states and through monitoring of multiple sources of data.

On the other hand, the crusade against cervical cancer, a viral infection caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) that spreads through skin to skin sexual contact, was made even stronger all year round thanks to two top pharmaceutical companies Glaxo Smith Kline (GSK) and Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD).  Both companies manufacture vaccines to prevent cervical cancer infection.  Cervarix by GSK protects against two strains of HPV (16 and 18) that causes cervical cancer. It is  also formulated with AS04, a proprietary adjuvant that boosts the immune system response for a longer period of time to HPV strains.  Meanwhile, Gardasil by MSD is a quadrivalent vaccine that also prevents vulvar and vaginal cancer as well as vulvar and vaginal pre-cancers.  it is also expected to prevent low-grade and pre-cancerous lesions and genital warts.

Another major breakthrough in the field of medical science is the discovery of Fuda Cancer Hospital (FCH) in Guangzhou, China, a medical facility that specializes in cancer treatment using modern methods.  The story was first released in July exclusive for Manila Bulletin publication and it sparked overwhelming inquiries from our dear readers.  For more information about FCH, email hope_cancer@gmail.com.

Let's get physical

Apart from the annual Milo Marathon, the biggest running event every year, there were several notable marathons that prove how enormous the sport has become.  Manufacturers and distributors of running shoes such as New Balance and Adidas played a big part in these activities.  Same goes to other brands advocating healthy lifestyle such as the McDonald's run-for-charity and Timex.

From running to walking, the year 2009 saw other everyday footwears evolving into fitness brands such as Fitflops, Reebok Easytone and Skechers Shape-ups.  More than just fashion brands, they've made innovations that would result to shapely legs, thighs, and even firmer bums.

But perhaps the biggest newsmaker in the athletic division for the year 2009 is Joy Rojas, the ultramarathoner who embarked on a cross-country run through the USA dubbed "Takbong Pangarap."  She now holds the title of the first Southeast Asian woman to run across the USA.

Fad diet... or not

From Japan came Morning Banana Diet.  The principle is really easy and it's for people who don’t want to bother with a diet and who are basically in control of things but need a little structure.

And then there's the water therapy which makes use of water to improve health with no adverse side effects.  Also known as Indian or Chinese Water Therapy, it involves consuming a gutful of water upon waking in order to "cleanse the bowel."

As we part with the old 2009 and say hello to 2010, from MB's Wellbeing Lifestyle Section, here's hoping to  a better and healthier year ahead for everyone.  Cheers!

(Write the author at wellbeing@mb.com.ph.)