Public Health Milestone: PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa presented the 2025 Annual Report to the OAS, highlighting Suriname’s certification as malaria-free in the Amazon Basin and noting other regional gains like Brazil’s progress on mother-to-child HIV transmission. Tobacco & Youth Health: A Caribbean-focused piece warns that vape marketing is targeting young people, tying into WHO’s World No Tobacco Day 2026 theme “Unmasking The Appeal,” and describing how “healthier” claims and sweet flavours can mask nicotine risks. Health Risks From Oil Expansion: Brazil’s environmental agency approved offshore drilling near the Amazon River mouth despite concerns about rescuing large manatees after spills, with simulations pointing to gaps in rescue supplies and safety. Local Health Impact of Aid Cuts: A report on Caribbean Food Security flags how the abrupt dismantling of USAID left a Surinamese farmer with debt and unfinished investments after promised agricultural support was terminated. Regional Connectivity & Health Access: In St. Kitts and Nevis, officials say Caribbean Airlines withdrew service without consultation, raising travel and tourism concerns that can also affect access to care across the region. Trade Talks With Health Relevance: Brazil and Suriname are set to negotiate an expanded trade agreement, with discussions including sectors like energy, logistics, agriculture, and communications that can shape health supply chains.