Moving Forward: Addressing Global Health Threats Beyond COVID-19
The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
Report: May 23, Tedros warned world leaders while delivering his report to the 76th World Health Assembly in Geneva
Introduction
While the end of the COVID-19 pandemic as a global health emergency brings relief, it does not mark the end of COVID-19 as a global health threat. The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has emphasized the ongoing danger posed by the virus, the potential for new variants, and the need for robust global mechanisms to tackle future emergencies. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected progress towards health-related targets under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and highlighted the importance of promoting health and preventing diseases. This article delves into these crucial aspects and the continued efforts required to address global health threats.
Ongoing Global Health Threats
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus asserts that the threat of another COVID-19 variant emerging, leading to new surges of disease and death, remains a concern. Additionally, the possibility of another pathogen with even deadlier potential emerging in the future is a reminder that pandemics are not the sole threat humanity faces. In the face of overlapping and converging crises, Tedros emphasizes the necessity for effective global mechanisms that can address and respond to emergencies of all kinds. To be adequately prepared for the next pandemic, collective and equitable action is essential.
Implications for Health Targets
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted health-related targets outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set to be achieved by 2030. Progress towards the Triple Billion targets, which aim to ensure universal health coverage, protect individuals from health emergencies, and improve overall health and well-being, has been hampered by the pandemic. While some progress has been made in achieving universal health coverage, current trends indicate that less than half the world's population will be covered by the end of the decade. Tedros emphasizes the need to double the pace of progress to meet these crucial health goals.
Action on SDGs and Lessons from COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the importance of the SDGs and the urgency required in pursuing them. The pandemic has revealed that all eight billion people on the planet need better protection during emergencies. Tedros reiterates that the SDGs must remain the guiding principles for global health, emphasizing the necessity to pursue them with the same determination and urgency demonstrated during the pandemic. The setbacks caused by COVID-19 should serve as a catalyst to redouble efforts in achieving the SDGs and ensuring global health equity.
Promoting Health and Preventing Diseases
Tedros highlights significant achievements in promoting health and preventing diseases over the past year through the "five Ps": promoting, providing, protecting, powering, and performing for health. Governments worldwide have taken action to promote health by addressing the root causes of diseases. Notably, numerous countries have implemented taxes on products harmful to health, such as tobacco and sugary drinks, with 133 governments introducing or increasing these taxes between 2017 and 2022. Progress has also been made in eliminating industrially-produced trans-fat from the global food supply and reducing salt intake, a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Stamping Out Polio
With the end of COVID-19 and smallpox as global public health emergencies, the fight against polio remains. While the number of wild poliovirus cases reached an all-time low of five in 2021, there was an increase last year, with cases reported in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Mozambique. Tedros emphasizes the continued commitment of the WHO and its partners to eradicate polio and ensure its place in history as a conquered disease.
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| Credit: The Sustainable Development Goals are a blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. |
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the ongoing threat posed by infectious diseases and the need for global preparedness and response mechanisms. It has also disrupted progress towards critical health targets, underscoring the importance of redoubling efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. As we move forward, it is crucial to promote health, prevent diseases, and remain vigilant against potential future pandemics. By working collectively, decisively, and equitably, we can strengthen global health systems and effectively address global health threats, safeguarding the well-being of people worldwide.
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