Efficacy News’ Post

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the ongoing mpox outbreak a global health emergency as of August 14, 2024. This decision comes amid rising cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and neighboring countries, where a new strain known as clade 1b is spreading rapidly. This strain is particularly concerning due to its transmission primarily through sexual contact, marking a shift in how the virus spreads. Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral infection characterized by symptoms such as fever, painful rashes, and swollen lymph nodes. While it is generally self-limiting, the disease can lead to severe complications, especially in vulnerable populations like children and those with weakened immune systems. Since the beginning of 2024, over 15,600 cases and 537 deaths have been reported, with the DRC accounting for the majority of these incidents. The WHO emphasizes the need for a coordinated international response to curb the outbreak and prevent further spread. Vaccines are available and efforts are underway to enhance access, particularly in low-income countries. The organization is calling for global collaboration to secure funding and resources to combat this public health threat effectively. Stay informed and vigilant about mpox, as it poses a risk not only in Africa but potentially worldwide. Let's work together to ensure health and safety for all. By Harpreet Kaur MPH.BSC.RN

Explore the challenges and solutions regarding the rise of noncommunicable diseases. Check expert opinions on the factors, consequences, and potential scenarios in developing countries. What actions do you think should be prioritized to tackle the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases globally? #WorldHealthDay #DevelopmentAid #ExpertOpinions #NCDs #GlobalHealth #SustainableDevelopment #HealthcareAccess

Primary prevention is key in improving population health in times of crises. Non-communicable diseases (#NCDs) pose a significant threat to public health in the EU, with fuelled by preventable risk factors like #tobacco use and unhealthy diets. Despite recognition of the problem, progress on legislative initiatives has been slow, holding back efforts to address these pressing health challenges. EuroHealthNet’s Director Caroline Costongs worked with Judith Lambert, Ann Marie Borg, Gauden Galea and Kremlin Wickramasinghe to review progress made on the prevention pillar of the European Beating Cancer Plan. The article aims to highlight the progress of legal initiatives aimed at prevention of NCDs risk factors and wider health determinants under the European Commission’s Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan. Our proposals for EU action on NCDs: ▶ Maintain Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan  actions, focusing on regulatory measures for primary prevention and health promotion ▶ Appoint a Vice-President for a #Wellbeing Economy alongside the Commissioner for Health and Food to address cross-sectoral aspects ▶ Evaluate NCD prevention policies from a commercial determinants perspective ▶ Establish a high-level platform for cross-sectoral engagement to facilitate collaboration and trade-offs discussions with Member States, international organisations and civil society organisations Read more: https://lnkd.in/dRrK5R2R #NCDprevention #PublicHealth #HealthPromotion  

NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES: A LOOMING THREAT TO GLOBAL HEALTH Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), also known as chronic diseases, are the leading cause of death worldwide. Unlike infectious diseases that spread from person to person, NCDs develop over time and are often linked to lifestyle choices and underlying health conditions. The NCD Crisis _Staggering Numbers: NCDs kill a staggering 41 million people each year, accounting for 74% of all deaths globally. -Unequal Burden: Worse yet, over 85% of premature NCD deaths (before age 70) occur in low- and middle-income countries. This disproportionate impact exacerbates poverty and strains already fragile healthcare systems. -The Big Four: The four main NCD categories are cardiovascular diseases (heart disease, stroke), cancers, chronic respiratory diseases (COPD, asthma), and diabetes. These four groups are responsible for over 80% of all premature NCD deaths. Risk Factors and Prevention The good news is that many NCDs are preventable by addressing key risk factors: -Unhealthy Habits: Tobacco use, harmful alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and unhealthy diets are major contributors to NCDs. -Environmental Threats: Air pollution is another significant risk factor, particularly for respiratory diseases. Global Efforts Recognizing the gravity of the NCD crisis, international organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) are working to curb the disease burden. The WHO Global action plan for the prevention and control of NCDs aims to: -Reduce premature deaths: The plan sets a target to reduce premature deaths from NCDs by one-third by 2030. -Promote prevention: This includes advocating for policies that discourage unhealthy habits and promote healthy lifestyles. -Strengthen healthcare systems: Building capacity in low- and middle-income countries for early detection, treatment, and management of NCDs is crucial. NCDs pose a significant threat to global health and development. By addressing shared risk factors, implementing preventive measures, and strengthening healthcare systems, we can create a healthier future for all. #GlobalHealth #HealthWithoutBorders

In this report for The ICIR, I provided an in-depth analysis of the 2024 state health budget, comparing it to the approved budget to assess its adequacy in combating emerging epidemics throughout the year. https://lnkd.in/gVn5zDrA

Check out the article in PLOS on the performance evaluation of national healthcare systems in the prevention and treatment of non-communicable diseases in sub-Saharan Africa. Policymakers should work towards enhancing the efficiency and productivity of non-communicable disease #NCD spending in Sub-Saharan Africa to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 3.4 by 2030. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3SVGoh7

I’ve been following the dengue outbreaks across South America closely for the last few months. While Brazil is receiving the bulk of the media coverage, many other countries are also seeing increases of over 150% in both the number of cases and in the number of deaths compared to the same 8 week period last year. The situations in Paraguay, French Guiana, and Peru also deserve public and academic attention. According to a 2/20/24 article by the Pan American Health Organization, a regional branch of the WHO, the Latin America and the Caribbean as a region are seeing a 157% increase in cases over the same 5 week period in 2023, and a 225% increase over the five year average. For more information check out the PAHO website for the February 16th report “Epidemiological Alert- Increase in dengue cases in the Region of the Americas- 16 February 2024”

Non-Communicable Diseases (#NCDs): A Looming Public Health #Crisis in Africa Background: Non-communicable diseases (#NCDs) – like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases – are rapidly becoming a leading public health threat in Africa. While Africa has traditionally grappled with infectious diseases, NCD prevalence is rising due to urbanization, lifestyle changes, and population aging. #Africa CDC's Response: The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) recognizes the urgency of addressing NCDs. They advocate for strengthening national NCD prevention and control programs, promoting healthy lifestyles, and improving access to essential NCD services. [1] #Milestones and #Achievements: The adoption of the World Health Assembly's Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of NCDs in 2013 marked a significant step forward. Additionally, some African countries have reported progress in tobacco control and salt reduction strategies. [2] Challenges Remain: Despite these efforts, substantial challenges persist. Limited healthcare resources, weak surveillance systems, and inadequate access to NCD medications pose significant obstacles. Additionally, social determinants of health, such as poverty and lack of access to healthy foods, contribute to the NCD burden. [3] #Urgent Actions: Scaling up NCD prevention efforts, including promoting physical activity and healthy eating habits, is crucial. Strengthening healthcare systems to diagnose, treat, and manage NCDs effectively is also essential. Investment in research on NCDs in the African context is critical. Finally, addressing social determinants of health through multi-sectoral approaches is vital for long-term progress. [4] via prioritizing NCDs and taking decisive action, African nations can avert a looming public health crisis and ensure a healthier future for their citizens. References: 1. African Centre for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Non-Communicable Diseases. https://lnkd.in/eA--9TWP 2. World Health Organization. (2023) Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Non-communicable Diseases 2013-2030. 3. World Bank. (2023). Non-Communicable Diseases in Africa: A Growing Threat. 4 The Lancet. (2022). NCDs in Africa: A time for action.

Mpox outbreak underscores the urgent need for global health preparedness🤔 The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently declared the Mpox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). 💔 This declaration of Mpox as a PHEIC serves as a stark reminder of the continent's vulnerability to infectious diseases. 😔 Mpox is a viral disease with symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and a characteristic rash. Africa has a history of grappling with outbreaks, from Ebola to COVID-19.🌍 The Ebola and COVID-19 outbreaks exposed the fragility of health systems across Africa. Both diseases overwhelmed healthcare infrastructures, leading to shortages of medical personnel, equipment, and supplies.🩺🏥 Lockdowns and economic disruptions during both outbreaks caused significant hardship, exacerbating existing health inequalities. As a continent, we must continue to invest in primary healthcare facilities, hospitals, and laboratories is essential to provide adequate care and detect outbreaks early. A robust health infrastructure serves as the backbone for effective disease control and management.🏩 In addition, investment in research, and vaccine development, therapeutics, and diagnostic tools is crucial for controlling such disease outbreaks. By supporting research and innovation, Africa can build its capacity to respond effectively to emerging health challenges.🔬👩🏽🔬👨🏻🔬 To prevent the spread of Mpox, the WHO recommends several key steps for individuals. These include maintaining good hygiene through frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with those exhibiting symptoms, and promptly seeking medical attention if symptoms arise. 🫶🏼 By adhering to these guidelines, individuals can significantly contribute to controlling the spread of Mpox and protecting public health.🤗❤️ #globalhealth #health #healthcare #diseaseoutbreak #PHEIC #mpox #research #emergencyresponse #communityhealth #equity #healthdisparities

With mpox being designated a public health emergency of continental security by the Africa CDC and as a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization (WHO), we are resharing this insightful piece from Senior Fellow Ifeanyi Nsofor, MD from 2022 about what you should know about the disease and the global response to it. Follow him for insights on mpox and other issues in global health. https://lnkd.in/ekTdiqp5 #healthequity #publichealth #globalhealth