Since the term ''ultra-processed food'' was introduced in the fields of nutrition and public health, numerous studies have demonstrated its detrimental effects on health. Despite resistance from food companies and researchers with potential conflicts of interest, the concept has gained broad acceptance in both academic and non-academic circles. This article extends the discussion beyond nutrition by examining the wider concept of ''ultra-processed,'' its implications, and its application to other domains, including the metaphorical notions of ''ultra-processed people'' and an ''ultra-processed world.'' In doing so, we aim to raise awareness of the phenomenon of ''ultra-processing,'' highlighting its pervasive influence across food, society, and digital environments, and encouraging reflection on its consequences for everyday life. This expansive approach aligns with notable philosophical and sociological perspectives, yet our exploration of these trends offers an innovative angle.

The double burden of malnutrition (DBM) in sub-Saharan Africa is a pressing public health issue, particularly among children under five years old. DBM encompasses both undernutrition (stunting) and overnutrition (overweight) within the same population, often shaped by socio-economic disparities. Addressing DBM in early childhood is vital, as malnutrition can lead to long-term health, cognitive, and developmental challenges. Using nationally representative data from the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) across 20 sub-Saharan African countries, this study examines temporal socio-economic inequalities in DBM. Countries include Zimbabwe, Kenya, Nigeria, and Mozambique, among others. DBM was defined using anthropometric measures, while socio-economic status (SES) was categorized as poor, middle, or rich. Temporal trends were analyzed, and inequalities were quantified using Erreygers Normalized Concentration Indices (ENCI) and Theil indices to explore within- and between-group disparities by SES and urban/rural residence. DBM prevalence across countries ranged from 0.2 % to 4.6 %. Declines were noted in Zimbabwe and Kenya. Socio-economic inequalities were significant, with overnutrition increasingly concentrated in wealthier households, while undernutrition remained prevalent among poorer populations. Theil index analyses revealed within-group disparities as the primary drivers of overall inequality, particularly in urban wealthier populations, though rural and low-SES groups also contributed significantly in countries like Senegal and Mali. DBM is still present in sub-Saharan Africa and is driven by socio-economic inequalities. Targeted interventions focusing on improving access to nutritious food, healthcare, and education for vulnerable populations, particularly in rural and low-SES groups, are essential to reduce malnutrition disparities. • Socio-economic Inequality Trends: Overnutrition rises in wealthier households (Kenya, Nigeria), while undernutrition lingers in poorer rural areas. • Shifting DBM Patterns: DBM increased in urban Kenya, Mozambique, Ghana but declined in Zimbabwe, Malawi. • Inequality Decomposition: ENCI & Theil indices show within-group (rural/low-SES) disparities drive DBM inequalities more than between-group. • Rural-Urban Divide: Rural areas (Senegal, Mali) face higher malnutrition; urban inequality grows in Kenya, Nigeria. • SES Gradients: Wealthier households see more overnutrition, poorer ones face undernutrition (e.g., Burundi).

The global burden of cancer incidence, deaths and economic costs is steadily increasing since several decades. Despite a massive allocation of research funds since the 1970s, no significant (in terms of years) improvements of survival times have been achieved for most cancer types. In this article, I argue that the failure to effectively prevent and treat cancer is partly owing to the gene-centric paradigm of the somatic mutation theory of carcinogenesis. I outline and provide evidence for a new transdisciplinary evolutionary theory of carcinogenesis according to which cancer is a phylogenetic reversal towards unicellular lifeforms triggered by the breakdown of essential cooperative interactions on important levels of human organization. These levels include the genetic, cellular, tissue and psychosocial-spiritual level of human existence. The new theory considers the emergence of eukaryotes and metazoans and – of particular importance – human evolution and in this way explains why cooperation on these different levels is so essential to maintain holistic health. It is argued that the interaction between human’s slow natural evolution and the fast cultural evolution, especially during the current Anthropocene epoch, plays an important role in making individuals susceptible towards carcinogenesis. The implications of this insight and the theory of cancer as a phylogenetic reversal are discussed with respect to prevention and treatment, and concrete practical examples are provided. It is concluded that individuals could substantially reduce their risk of cancer by respecting certain biopsychosocial-spiritual lifestyle factors which are justified by human evolution.

The European Union has implemented various strategies and policies to mitigate the effects of the coronavirus-19 pandemic and promote recovery. This article reviews the European Union’s response and management decisions, examines the public health measures implemented to contain the virus, and explores the Union’s economic recovery and support initiatives. These include the “NextGenerationEU” recovery fund, the “European Support” instrument to mitigate “Unemployment Risks in an Emergency” (SURE) program, and the Multiannual Financial Framework recognizing the EU’s efforts to promote social welfare and inclusion during the pandemic. The challenges and lessons learned from the EU’s experience are analyzed, highlighting the importance of solidarity, cooperation, and resilience in crisis management. Drawing from the pandemic, this study explores the prospects and conclusions drawn from the pandemic, the need for building more resilient healthcare systems, fostering environmentally sustainable initiatives, strengthening social protection and inclusion, enhancing crisis preparedness and response, and promoting global health and equity.