Bat DNA Longevity Research: A new Nature study links longer-lived bat species to stronger immune-related gene activity, hinting that immune performance against both infections and cancer may help explain lifespan. Caribbean Mental Health Access: Saint Lucia is expanding stigma reduction while pointing residents to free, community-based counselling via nurses, with referrals for more intensive care when needed. Caribbean Youth Wellness Push: CARICOM’s secretary-general urges action on youth wellness as non-communicable diseases drive most Caribbean deaths, with many young adults facing overweight, high blood pressure, heavy alcohol use, and low physical activity. Clinical Trial Milestone (MPS IIIB): MEDIPAL and JCR Pharmaceuticals report dosing the first patient in a global Phase I/II trial of JR-446 for Sanfilippo syndrome type B, an ultra-rare, currently untreated neurodegenerative disorder. Chagas Detection via AI: Researchers report near-perfect staging of Chagas disease using graph neural networks that combine multiple data types, aiming to improve early, reliable diagnosis in a region where the disease is widespread. Mexico Cannabis Edibles Ruling: Mexico’s Supreme Court allows authorized adults to prepare cannabis/THC foods for personal consumption, drawing clear limits against selling or making regulated products. Breast Cancer Steps Challenge (Montserrat): Pink Ribbon Charity urges participation in a 100 Million Step Challenge for Caribbean Wellness Day, supporting youth health and breast cancer awareness. Latin America Pharma Manufacturing (Argentina): Aptar Pharma transfers and commissions preservative-free pump production in Berazategui, Argentina, to expand access to preservative-free nasal formulations across 15 countries. Rabies Exposure Alert (US): The CDC warns of a nationwide rise in rabies exposures and post-exposure prophylaxis needs, highlighting the importance of careful risk assessment. Ecuador COVID-19 Corruption Case: A court sentences former President Abdalá Bucaram and his son over alleged irregular COVID-19 test-kit and medical-supply sales during the pandemic.