Latest news with #Ferrer
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
A Hundred Experts Urge Strengthening Early Diagnosis of Pulmonary Hypertension in Latin America
PANAMA CITY, June 03, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The first Latin American edition of the "IMPAHCT: International Meeting on Pulmonary Hypertension Clinical Treatment" congress gathered nearly one hundred pulmonology and cardiology experts this past weekend in Panama City. The aim: to reflect on the current state of pulmonary hypertension (PH) in Latin America. Though this serious disease affects only about 1% of the global population, it brings debilitating symptoms and a heightened risk of mortality. The congress, organized by Ferrer, the pharmaceutical company with the highest B Corp score worldwide, facilitated connections among specialists from various disciplines and regions across Latin America. "The challenges in Latin America begin with raising awareness among the medical community. We must understand the disease and know how to diagnose it in order to refer patients to specialized centers as soon as possible," stated Dr. Angelo Valencia, Pediatric Cardiologist and Specialist in Congenital Diseases at the Imbanaco Clinic in Cali, Colombia. Dr. Valencia also emphasized the importance of promoting early diagnosis of PH, which remains underdiagnosed in much of Latin America: "The diagnosis of PH relies on measurements obtained through a cardiac catheterization, which, when properly performed in an experienced center, is low-risk and relatively straightforward." During the summit, the main causes of delayed diagnosis were discussed, including the non-specific nature of symptoms, a general lack of awareness about the disease among primary care physicians, and limited access to diagnostic tools. The congress also addressed the real-life burden of the disease on patients, families, and caregivers, and highlighted the role institutions should play. "While resources are important, decision-makers need to understand that a treated patient can be economically active. With proper treatment, they can continue to contribute socially, economically, professionally, and personally. An untreated patient deteriorates continuously, which becomes a financial burden on institutions," stressed Dr. Nayeli Zayas, Head of the Cardiopulmonary Department at the National Institute of Cardiology Ignacio Chávez in Mexico. According to Jorge Candia, Ferrer's Latam Region Director, "In line with our purpose of using business to fight for social justice, we are proud to contribute to ongoing medical education in Latin America. Thanks to events like IMPAHCT, attendees will return to their countries and share the knowledge gained here, leading to improved prognosis and care for patients with pulmonary hypertension." View source version on Contacts For more information: Communication Advisor gortizdez@ Tel. +34 936 003 779
Business Wire
a day ago
- Business
- Business Wire
A Hundred Experts Urge Strengthening Early Diagnosis of Pulmonary Hypertension in Latin America
BUSINESS WIRE)--The first Latin American edition of the 'IMPAHCT: International Meeting on Pulmonary Hypertension Clinical Treatment' congress gathered nearly one hundred pulmonology and cardiology experts this past weekend in Panama City. The aim: to reflect on the current state of pulmonary hypertension (PH) in Latin America. Though this serious disease affects only about 1% of the global population, it brings debilitating symptoms and a heightened risk of mortality. The congress, organized by Ferrer, the pharmaceutical company with the highest B Corp score worldwide, facilitated connections among specialists from various disciplines and regions across Latin America. 'The challenges in Latin America begin with raising awareness among the medical community. We must understand the disease and know how to diagnose it in order to refer patients to specialized centers as soon as possible,' stated Dr. Angelo Valencia, Pediatric Cardiologist and Specialist in Congenital Diseases at the Imbanaco Clinic in Cali, Colombia. Dr. Valencia also emphasized the importance of promoting early diagnosis of PH, which remains underdiagnosed in much of Latin America: 'The diagnosis of PH relies on measurements obtained through a cardiac catheterization, which, when properly performed in an experienced center, is low-risk and relatively straightforward.' During the summit, the main causes of delayed diagnosis were discussed, including the non-specific nature of symptoms, a general lack of awareness about the disease among primary care physicians, and limited access to diagnostic tools. The congress also addressed the real-life burden of the disease on patients, families, and caregivers, and highlighted the role institutions should play. 'While resources are important, decision-makers need to understand that a treated patient can be economically active. With proper treatment, they can continue to contribute socially, economically, professionally, and personally. An untreated patient deteriorates continuously, which becomes a financial burden on institutions,' stressed Dr. Nayeli Zayas, Head of the Cardiopulmonary Department at the National Institute of Cardiology Ignacio Chávez in Mexico. According to Jorge Candia, Ferrer's Latam Region Director, 'In line with our purpose of using business to fight for social justice, we are proud to contribute to ongoing medical education in Latin America. Thanks to events like IMPAHCT, attendees will return to their countries and share the knowledge gained here, leading to improved prognosis and care for patients with pulmonary hypertension.'
Daily Record
16-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Record
'Worst start to season for years' in Spain as restaurant bookings down 50%
There is panic on one popular island after a huge slump in customers amid rising anti-tourism protests Restaurant bookings on a holiday hotspot Spanish island have dropped by around 50 per cent according to industry figures and given the sector the 'worst start to the season' in years. Restaurant owners are reportedly in panic as weekend trade has also taken a dip. The president of Majorca's restaurant association, Restauración CAEB, has described the diminishing numbers as 'very bad'. It is thought the downturn in business is down to a mixture of higher fees, stricter regulations on establishments and anti-visitor sentiment in Majorca. President Juanmi Ferrer told the island's Majorca Daily Bulletin that weeknight reservations have dipped by about 50 per cent in areas frequented by tourists and weekend trade is 10 per cent lower than last years. The hospitality sector appears to have been affected by a raft of anti-tourism demonstrations which have taken place across Spain, including the Balearic islands, reports The Express. Business from tourists makes up around 45 per cent of the island's GDP but visitors are facing increased red tape, new rules and fees too. Majorca Increased footfall has been disastrous for its housing market and vulnerable infrastructure. Locals have taken to the streets numerous times over the last year calling for better protection against the tide of globetrotters and second home owners. Travellers flocking to the Balearic island during peak season will also be subject to an extra £5 per night under the local Government's new tourist tax. Mr Ferrer said May 1 and May 2 had brought normal levels of trade, but "the rest of the month has been lamentable". "We don't expect the situation to improve, at least until May 25," he said. "We're writing off the month. We didn't expect this start to the season: you have to go back many years to find one this bad." He said that the bad weather might also be having an impact May seeing flooding and torrential rain. But he admitted that trade seemed to be on the downturn, with last year's incomings worse than in 2023. Restauración CAEB warned of a 20 per cent revenue drop in the first quarter of 2025 earlier this month - echoing the 20 per cent drop also recorded in June 2024, which was attributed to lower tourist spending. Mr Ferrer has described the hospitality industry as Majorca's "leading economic barometer" and warned that a consistent decrease in trading figures "will inevitably effect the entire local economy". Despite the apparently alarm-raising news, overall tourism to the Balearics broke previous records in the first few months of 2025, with over 800,000 international travellers landing on the archipelago between January and March, a rise of nearly 4 per cent on last year. "In terms of spending, we are not seeing an increase, but quite the opposite, a decrease," Mr Ferrer warned. "We have more people spending less, it seems." As well as being discouraged from longer stays by tourist tax policies and hostile locals, holidaymakers have pointed the finger of blame at rising prices in Majorca's hospitality sector. But the very visible protests are also taking their toll. Last week the Spanish Tourist Board mounted a damage limitation offensive saying the country still welcomes tourists. Manuel Butler, director of the Spanish Tourist Office in London said it is "important to distinguish between specific local tensions and the broader national picture. "The vast majority of Spain remains enthusiastic in welcoming tourists."
Edinburgh Live
16-05-2025
- Business
- Edinburgh Live
Spanish tourist hotspot hit with slump in bookings as restaurants empty and sales down
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Restaurant proprietors in Majorca are facing a crisis due to a slump in tourist bookings, believed to be caused by inflated fees, tightening regulations and growing hostility towards visitors. The president of the island's restaurant association Restauración CAEB has described the first half of May as "very bad" for the local hospitality industry. Juanmi Ferrer communicated to the Majorca Daily Bulletin that evening bookings have plummeted by up to 50% in areas popular with tourists, while weekend business has also suffered, witnessing around a 10% decrease compared to the previous year. This downturn in trade from holidaymakers – who contribute about 45% to the island's economic output – is happening amid enhanced bureaucratic hurdles, fresh impositions and charges, and frequent anti-tourism protests. An increase in visitor numbers has had adverse effects on Majorca's housing and infrastructure, prompting residents to protest multiple times in the last twelve months, demanding better safeguards against the influx of tourists and second property purchasers. Holiday-goers visiting the Balearic island at peak times are now also facing an additional nightly fee of £5, courtesy of the regional government's new tourist levy. Mr Ferrer remarked the month began with acceptable levels of activity on May 1 and May 2, but stated that "the rest of the month has been lamentable", reports the Express. He expressed little hope for improvement until after May 25, confessing, "We're writing off the month. We didn't expect this start to the season: you have to go back many years to find one this bad." The hospitality chief noted a worrying slump in business potentially due to poor weather affecting Spain recently, while also conceding that trade appears to be waning, with last year's earnings falling short of 2023's figures. Join Edinburgh Live's Whatsapp Community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages Restauración CAEB reported earlier this month on a troubling 20% revenue dip in the first quarter of 2025, echoing a similar fall in June 2024, linked to decreased tourist expenditure. Mr Ferrer has referred to the hospitality sector as Majorca's "leading economic barometer", cautioning that persistent downturns in trade "will inevitably effect the entire local economy". Despite concerning signals, tourism in the Balearics hit an all-time high in early 2025, drawing over 800,000 international visitors from January to March, up almost 4% from the previous year. Mr Ferrer highlighted a troubling trend where visitor numbers are up yet spending is down: "In terms of spending, we are not seeing an increase, but quite the opposite, a decrease," he said. "We have more people spending less, it seems." Tourists are reportedly being put off by factors including the tourist tax, unfriendly locals, and inflation within Majorca's hospitality trade, as one frustrated Brit lamented about the industry "biting the hand" that feeds it.
Montreal Gazette
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Montreal Gazette
Quebec restaurateurs say Michelin Guide ratings ‘a recognition of who we are'
Reactions to the launch of the Michelin Guide's Quebec edition were mixed in Montreal's restaurant scene, Thursday afternoon, as news got around about who did and didn't get a star from the world famous and famously finicky food ratings behemoth. Jérôme Ferrer was still absorbing the fact that his restaurant had been awarded a coveted Michelin star. 'It's the fruit of 23 years of work. We're very, very happy,' said the chef and co-owner of Restaurant Jérôme Ferrer — Europea in downtown Montreal. 'For us, it's excellence. Michelin stars are a reference worldwide. It's a recognition of who we are.' Conceived by its titular chef-owner with help from Quebec actor, playwright and stage director René Richard Cyr, Europea offers a range of immersive and interactive eating experiences for customers up for adventure. 'I like to plunge my clients into a playful universe,' Ferrer said, adding, 'the real success belongs to the people around me, the team of professionals — 40 per cent of the people working at the restaurant have been with me since the beginning. I dedicate this to them, my partner, my friends. It's very emotional, for a little guy who started to cook age 15.' His restaurant was one of just three in Montreal — along with Sabayon in Point St. Charles and Mastard in Rosemont — and nine in the province to receive a Michelin star, with Quebec City's Tanière 3 being the only two-star restaurant, according to the guide. 'Is it really what our city deserves? I don't know,' Ferrer said. 'I'm very touched, but I also have a thought for all my friends and colleagues who didn't receive this supreme recognition.' Down in Pointe St-Charles, Sabayon co-owners Marie-Josée Beaudoin and her partner, chef Patrice Demers, were doing double duty answering phone calls as word spread of the Michelin star awarded to their intimate 14-seat eatery, which opened in August 2023. 'We're very happy,' Beaudoin said. 'It's really a nice honour. We didn't know what to expect. Our clients have told us we deserve a star but you never know. For Patrice, to see his cuisine recognized in the Michelin Guide is very prestigious. It's world renowned, and a recognized gauge of quality. After 25 years of doing this, the two of us, it's a nice cherry on top.' Sabayon offers a six-course tasting menu, Thursday to Saturday evening, as well as afternoon tea with three desserts, Fridays and Saturdays. Everyone who enters eats food cooked with care by Demers and served by Beaudoin, which she believes may have given them an edge. 'Michelin likes consistency,' she said. 'We're consistent in our way of doing things. And Patrice's signature as a pastry chef can be felt, even in his savory dishes. We try to showcase Quebec products, working with fish, seafood and vegetables, with very little meat. It's all about délicatesse and precision.' Though she and Demers were overjoyed at their achievement, they too had a pang for other notable Montreal businesses that did not receive a star. 'We expected more restaurants to be on the list, and to be with more of our colleagues,' she said. 'But it's the first edition; more restaurants will be added in the years to come.' Many of our city's best-known eating establishments — from Vin Mon Lapin to Joe Beef by way of Lawrence, Vin Papillon and Le Violon — did not receive Michelin stars but were instead to be found on the list of 44 Montreal restaurants (and 76 in all of Quebec) to receive a Michelin Recommended rating, the guide's equivalent of an honourable mention. Among them was Foxy, which was taken over from former chef-owners Dyan Solomon and Éric Girard in 2023 by sommelière (and former employee) Véronique Dalle and partner Bruno Lesieur. 'It's been less than half an hour and already half my contacts have called,' Dalle told The Gazette. 'I'm discovering what this means along with you. It's something positive. We're very happy to be mentioned. There weren't many restaurants; we realize only a small batch was selected, so I'm very thankful that they recognized our work. I'm happy to be among all these good restaurateurs.' On top of the recognition for Foxy's wood-burning oven- and coal-roasted fare came a bonus prize: a Michelin Exceptional Cocktails Award, attributed to Dalle, though she was quick to clarify that the honour belongs to her head bartender Sabrina Touzel. 'We're five sommeliers on the floor,' she explained. 'The bar menu has been worked on in detail, along with the wine list. We're trying to do good work on all levels, but for sure our bar program is very interesting.' Another of Montreal's Michelin Recommended restaurants is chef Normand Laprise's Toqué!, an institution in the city. Reached between his lunchtime and dinner services, he said the recognition was bittersweet. 'It's disappointing for my team,' Laprise noted. 'Toqué! has existed for 32 years, but OK — Michelin makes their own breakdown. It's what they decided. Sometimes I find these things a bit funny.' He was still pondering Michelin's description of his restaurant as 'a classic address' that offers 'solidly traditional cuisine' inspired primarily by French gastronomy. 'Did they really eat at our restaurant?' he wondered. 'It's funny, they say we offer classic French cuisine — we're anything but that. There's no description of the plates. It's a bit odd, but it's a rating like the others. If it's not this year, maybe it will be next. 'I've been working with Quebec producers and distributors for 25 years. That's always been my philosophy: local, traceable products, not just from Quebec but good (quality). I feel like that didn't interest them and their rankings. I'll live with it. I can't do much about it. We'll keep working hard and taking care of our customers. If I was 31 and my restaurant had just been here two years, I might be more stressed. ... I know what I'm doing and what we want to do with the means we have.' The only restaurant in the province to receive two stars was Tanière 3, run by co-owner-chef François-Emmanuel Nicol and dining room manager Roxan Bourdelais. The restaurant won top honours at the Lauriers de la Gastronomie Québécoise 2024. Tanière 3 — which Michelin described as 'avant-garde' chef François-Emmanuel Nicol's 'gastronomic research laboratory' exploring 'all the nuances to be derived from the immense terroir of Quebec's boreal zone' — offers a blind tasting menu of around 15 courses either in the dining room or at the chef's counter. 'My god, I have no words at the moment to describe what we feel,' said co-owner Roxan Bourdelais, who also received the Michelin Outstanding Service Award. 'We're preparing for this evening's service and we're all having out-of-body experiences at the moment.' Though they had no expectations regarding Thursday's announcement, he and Nicol had ambitions. 'We were aiming for two stars,' Bourdelais said. 'If we got one star, we would have been super happy. We conceived the restaurant, in an unconscious way, with those standards. François-Emmanuel and I have the same vision of excellence we wanted to apply and push ourselves to maintain every day, and for the whole team to embark on.' The Michelin Guide's arrival is 'really big news for Quebec as a whole,' he said. Former Gazette fine dining critic Lesley Chesterman is not so sure. She was particularly disappointed that so many of Montreal's best restaurants were passed up for Michelin stars. 'I think there's going to be a big backlash,' she said. 'It's terrible. Some people there are very good, like Arvi in Quebec City. I'm so glad they got a star. And Mastard's star is well-deserved. But when I look at all the people left off the list, I'm sad.' Chesterman was at a photo shoot for her forthcoming food-and-wine book En accord, written with her partner, former Le Devoir wine critic Jean Aubry. 'I'm sitting with a group of people who have all worked in food and we're all shocked that Quebec got more attention than Montreal,' she said. 'I love Quebec City, it's a great food city, but Montreal is still the capital. It really makes me question who the judges are and their criteria.' The fact that so many notable Montreal restaurants were listed among the Recommended destinations did not make up for the lack of stars awarded in our city, she said. 'It just feels like compensation. The thing everyone was waiting for was the stars, and the stars are weird. It just feels odd. I don't know. I'm unpleasantly surprised.' This story was originally published May 15, 2025 at 7:34 PM.
