China, Japan Health and Biopharma News Roundup

Corporate Greed Prompts CEO Killing

The Dec. 4 killing of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson has raised concerns about violence driven by frustration over corporate greed. Though the specific motives behind the murder remain unclear, the suspect reportedly left a three-page handwritten document that blames the tactics used by medical insurance companies—particularly their practice of denying claims—as a major factor.

1. Japanese Media: Resentment over Medical Insurance Prompts Killing
   According to Nikkei, resentment towards medical insurance companies, particularly their denial of medical coverage, is believed to have contributed to the killing. These companies' practices often leave patients burdened with large medical bills, which is exacerbated by the high cost of healthcare in the United States. The U.S. spends 16-17% of its GDP on healthcare, the highest among industrialized nations, and this has created widespread dissatisfaction.

2. Former Pharma Employee Tried in Beijing for Spy Charges
   A former employee of Astellas Pharma has been tried in Beijing on spy charges after his detention in March. The Japanese national, who worked as an executive for Astellas’ China unit, faced trial in the Intermediate People’s Court in Beijing, which was closed to the public. This case has raised concerns among Japanese business executives about the safety of traveling to China. Kyoto News reported that this situation may affect future business relations between Japan and China.

3. China Approves More New Drugs, Including Vamorolone for Duchenne
   In a year-end push to approve more drugs, China has granted approval for several new treatments, including Vamorolone, a drug for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. This approval is particularly notable as Vamorolone has shown fewer adverse side effects compared to the standard treatment, prednisolone. In other news, Merck's Keytruda has received approval for a new indication in cervical cancer in China.

This roundup highlights the intersection of healthcare costs, corporate practices, and drug approvals in Asia, with significant implications for both local and global industries.