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Joaquim Cardoso MSc.
Chief Research and Strategy Officer (CRSO),
Chief Editor and Senior Advisor
December 21, 2023
What is the message?
The year 2023 marked the 75th anniversary of the World Health Organization (WHO), reflecting on a tumultuous yet resilient global health landscape.
Amidst emergencies, disease outbreaks, and climate-related challenges, WHO spearheaded multifaceted efforts to address crises, deliver healthcare, combat infectious diseases, and advance vaccination campaigns.
This executive summary delves into key achievements, challenges, and statistical highlights that shaped global health in 2023.
Executive Summary
Key Points
- Emergencies: WHO responded to 65 emergencies, including earthquakes, floods, and conflicts, mobilizing resources and aiding 107 million crisis-affected people in 29 countries.
- Outbreaks: WHO tackled a surge in infectious diseases, supporting countries in containment efforts and responding to over 1200 attacks on healthcare, documenting 700 deaths and nearly 1200 injuries.
- COVID-19 and mpox: Despite declaring an end to COVID-19 and mpox emergencies, WHO remains vigilant, expanding networks to track respiratory pathogens and preparing for potential vaccine developments.
- Climate Change and Health: COP28 witnessed a historic focus on health, with over 130 countries signing the COP28 UAE Declaration on Climate and Health, recognizing the devastating impact of climate-related health crises affecting 3.5 billion people.
- Disease Elimination: Remarkable progress was made in disease elimination, with Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, Belize, and Egypt achieving malaria and hepatitis C elimination milestones. Fifty countries eliminated neglected tropical diseases, contributing to WHO’s goal for 2030.
- Delivering Vaccines: As of November 2023, 72% of the global population received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose. WHO recommended a new malaria vaccine, a dengue vaccine, and prequalified a meningococcal conjugate vaccine.
- Non-communicable Diseases: WHO reported significant strides in tobacco control policies, high blood pressure awareness, and mental health services. The Global Status Report on Road Safety showed a 5% reduction in annual road traffic deaths since 2010.
Statistics
- 65 emergencies addressed by WHO in 2023.
- Over 1200 documented attacks on healthcare resulting in 700 deaths and nearly 1200 injuries.
- 72% of the global population received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose.
- 50 countries eliminated neglected tropical diseases.
- 1.19 million annual road traffic deaths, with a 5% reduction since 2010.
Examples
- Egypt achieving “gold tier” status in hepatitis C elimination.
- COP28 UAE Declaration on Climate and Health signed by over 130 countries.
- 13.6 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses administered globally.
Conclusion
In 2023, WHO navigated a complex global health landscape, responding to emergencies, combating infectious diseases, and advancing disease elimination efforts.
Noteworthy achievements, such as the COP28 UAE Declaration, disease eliminations, and vaccination milestones, underscore the collective global commitment to building a healthier and more resilient world.
Challenges persist, particularly in climate-related health crises and the ongoing battle against non-communicable diseases.
The year serves as a testament to the dedication of health workers worldwide and the ongoing imperative for international collaboration in the face of evolving health threats.
Source: https://worldhealthorganizationdepartmentofcommunications.cmail19.com/t/d-e-vkutyik-juehitjki-j
