The World Health Organization (WHO) is emphasizing its commitment to tackling long-term health threats despite recent funding changes, as discussed by senior officials in Paris.
Etienne Krug, WHO’s Director of the Department of Social Determinants of Health, expressed concern regarding the impact of U.S. budget cuts and policy alterations on crucial health programs that serve millions worldwide.
“We are indeed worried,” stated Krug regarding the prospective implications of U.S. actions. “We are hopeful that the U.S. will continue its collaboration with WHO.”
With 194 member states, the WHO is mobilizing efforts to implement various health initiatives and remains dedicated to combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and injuries.
Krug indicated that WHO will closely observe the potential ongoing effects of recent U.S. policies on global health cooperation. “Our collaboration with member states remains unaffected. Our priority is to address NCDs and prevent injuries,” he noted.
Krug spoke during the Partnership for Healthy Cities Summit in Paris, which attracted around 240 participants, including mayors and health officials from 61 cities worldwide, all focused on addressing the alarming statistics surrounding NCDs and injuries that account for 80% of global deaths.
Rising rates of NCDs in regions such as Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America are driven by increased tobacco consumption, poor dietary habits, alcohol use, and sedentary lifestyles. “We are working diligently with nations and cities to implement stronger laws, enhance awareness, and collaborate with the private sector to promote healthier behaviors,” Krug stated.
Focus on Sustainable Development Goals
When questioned about WHO’s specific objectives regarding NCDs and injuries, Krug highlighted that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set a target to reduce NCDs by 50% by 2030.
“We collaborate with the United Nations and our member states to realize these goals,” he added.
Krug mentioned active partnerships with cities like Bangkok and Manila in addressing NCDs and injury prevention. He acknowledged the complexities of improving health outcomes in rapidly developing urban areas but emphasized the opportunities to incorporate health initiatives into evolving infrastructures.
Recent WHO data reveals that NCDs, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and chronic lung diseases, account for approximately 400,000 deaths annually in Thailand, representing 74% of all fatalities in the country.
High prevalence rates of behavioral risks such as tobacco use, low physical activity, and poor dietary practices among the Thai population contribute significantly to these alarming statistics.
Krug also highlighted successful collaborations with African cities, where local initiatives targeting tobacco, nutrition, air quality, and road safety are being developed. “By sharing best practices and providing technical support, we are witnessing substantial progress in many of these cities,” he noted.
