Comparative analysis of health technology assessment and health economic evaluations in Western Balkan countries versus Albania
Health Technology Assessment (HTA) and health economic evaluations are key instruments for evi - dence-based decision making in health systems facing increasing budgetary pressure. HTA supports transparent and rational allocation of limited resources by assessing the clinical, economic, ethical and social value of health technologies. This paper compares the development and practical use of HTA and health economic evaluations in Western Balkan countries and Albania. A narrative review of World Health Organization (WHO) reports and peer-reviewed studies was conducted. Results show that Serbia and Croatia have established early legal and institutional frameworks for HTA, while Bosnia and Herze- govina recognizes HTA in legislation but lacks functional implementation structures. Across the region, health economic evaluations are mainly applied in reimbursement decisions for medicines but are rarely used systematically in broader health policy. Albania remains at the earliest stage of HTA development, with no formal national HTA agency and limited use of standardized economic evaluations. The findings highlight major gaps in institutional capacity, legal frameworks and data availability. Strengthening HTA structures, harmonizing evaluation standards and promoting regional cooperation could significantly im- prove transparency, efficiency and equity of health spending decisions. The study concludes that Albania lags behind neighboring countries in formal HTA implementation and requires urgent policy action to align with European standards.
Exploring the protective effects of botanical antioxidants against UV-induced skin damage
The concept of systemic photoprotection through dietary means is gaining attention. The skin is continu- ously exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, a primary cause of skin disorders such as sunburn, photodam- age, and nonmelanoma skin cancer. Solar UV radiation initiates photo-oxidative reactions that impair antioxidant defenses and increase reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the skin. When ROS generation overwhelms the skin’s antioxidant capacity, the ability to counteract damage is compromised. Excessive UV exposure, particularly UVB, leads to skin disorders including erythema, edema, inflammation, hyper- pigmentation, immunosuppression, skin cancers, and photoaging. To mitigate these effects, antioxidants can be administered through dietary sources, a process known as photochemoprevention. This study employed observational approaches to evaluate the protective effects of selected botanical antioxidants against UV-induced skin damage in individuals with varying dietary habits.
Pharmacogenetics and personalized treatment in chronic congenital anemias: Integrated perspectives and a systematic review
Objective: This comprehensive article explores the emerging role of pharmacogenetics in optimizing treatment for chronic congenital anemias, including β-thalassemia, sickle cell disease (SCD), and rare erythropoietic disorders. It integrates a systematic review with an in-depth clinical analysis of personal-ized medicine strategies.
Methods: A systematic literature review (2015 - 2024) was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, following PRISMA guidelines.
Results: Genetic profiling significantly improves drug selection, dosing, and toxicity management in
congenital anemias.
Conclusion: Pharmacogenetics supports a transformative shift toward personalized therapy in hema-tology by improving efficacy, reducing adverse effects, and enabling the integration of novel targeted treatments.
Students’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding metabolic syndrome: An in-depth summary
Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is a growing public health challenge worldwide, characterized by a cluster of metabolic risk factors that increase the likelihood of cardiovascular disease and diabetes [1][2]. This study explores the knowledge, attitudes, practices, and beliefs (KAPB) of university students in Albania regarding MetS, with a focus on obesity, hypertension, and lipid disorders. Given the limited data on young populations in Albania [15], assessing students’ awareness is critical since they represent future healthcare professionals and potential agents of preventive change.
Mental health in old age: Challenges, nursing management, and possibilities for improvement in the Albanian healthcare system
Mental health problems among older adults in Albania are increasing due to population aging, social isolation, limited services, and under-resourced healthcare; this narrative review summarizes common conditions such as depression, dementia, and anxiety, discusses contributing factors, and emphasizes the central role of nurses in early detection, coordinated care, and family support, while proposing system-level recommendations to strengthen training, community services, and integrated policies for elderly mental health.