WHO highlights significant achievements in global health and warns about non-communicable diseases.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released a report highlighting significant achievements in the fight against various diseases over the past year. In a context where global health faces constant challenges, the WHO has emphasized the elimination of neglected tropical diseases in several countries, marking a milestone in global public health. Brazil, India, Pakistan, and other countries have eliminated diseases such as African trypanosomiasis and leprosy, underscoring the importance of public health strategies and international collaboration. One of the most notable achievements mentioned in the report is the culmination of the fight against malaria in Egypt, a country that has been grappling with this disease for over a century. Alongside Cape Verde, which has also been declared malaria-free, these milestones not only represent victories for the nations involved but also reinforce the global commitment to eradicating diseases that disproportionately affect the most vulnerable populations. The Americas region has been declared free of measles once again, while Guinea has eliminated maternal and neonatal tetanus. These achievements are the result of hard and sustained work, where resources and efforts have been mobilized globally. The WHO has highlighted that these victories are the result of a joint effort among countries, donors, and partner organizations, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in global health. However, despite these advances, the report also highlights a growing concern: non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer. These diseases are responsible for a significant portion of deaths worldwide and, despite being largely preventable, their prevalence is increasing, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The WHO warns that if immediate action is not taken, these health issues could hinder the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The WHO plans to address this situation with the Fourth High-Level Meeting of the United Nations General Assembly on the Prevention and Control of NCDs in 2025. The goal is to strengthen health systems, focusing on primary care and ensuring that countries have the necessary tools to combat these preventable diseases. It is crucial that nations adopt public health policies that prioritize prevention rather than focusing solely on treatment. New data on the prevalence of NCDs is alarming. Nearly 1.8 billion adults worldwide are at risk of developing serious conditions due to a lack of physical activity. Furthermore, the report on alcohol and drug consumption highlights the human and social cost of substance abuse, translating into millions of annual deaths and an increase in injuries and violence. Antimicrobial resistance has also been a central theme on the WHO's agenda. This phenomenon represents one of the most urgent threats to public health, and world leaders have committed to reducing mortality from drug-resistant infections. This commitment is essential to ensure that future generations have access to effective treatments. Globally, WHO member states have adopted resolutions emphasizing the need for decisive action in the face of climate change and its effects on health. Health cannot be viewed as an isolated issue; it must be integrated into the economic and social development of nations. The WHO has urged countries to align their economic policies with public health goals, creating an environment where health is a priority and not an afterthought. In an effort to strengthen global health security, the WHO has finalized negotiations to amend the International Health Regulations, which will allow for a more effective response to future pandemics. These amendments include clear definitions and a commitment to solidarity among nations to ensure equitable access to medical resources. Finally, it is evident that while significant progress has been made in global health, there is still much work to be done. The WHO points out that urgent improvements in international coordination and collaboration are needed to address emerging challenges. The lessons learned over the past year must be translated into concrete actions to prevent and control not only NCDs but also any emerging threats in the future. Global health is a shared responsibility, and only through collective effort can we ensure a healthier future for all.