Latest news with #healthpromotion
News24
02-07-2025
- Health
- News24
WHO calls for increase in health taxes to save lives
The World Health Organisation is urging countries to raise prices of tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks by at least 50%. A 50% price hike on these products could prevent 50 million premature deaths over the next 50 years. Increasing taxation on these harmful products could generate an additional $1 trillion in public revenue over the next 10 years. The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday urged countries to massively increase the price of tobacco, alcohol and sugary drinks to raise public revenue and cut chronic disease. The global body said prices should be raised by at least 50% by 2035 because increased consumption was fuelling an epidemic of non-communicable diseases or NCDs, including heart disease, cancer and diabetes. It pointed to a recent report that suggested that a one-time 50% price hike on tobacco, alcohol and sugary drinks could prevent 50 million premature deaths over the next 50 years. 'Health taxes are one of the most efficient tools we have,' said the WHO's assistant director-general of health promotion and disease prevention and control, Jeremy Farrar. 'They cut the consumption of harmful products and create revenue governments can reinvest in health care, education and social protection. It's time to act.' READ | If all cigarettes were taxed, South Africa wouldn't need a VAT increase The WHO's '3 by 35' initiative comes at a time when health systems are under huge pressure from increasing numbers of NCDs, shrinking development aid and ballooning public debt. The introduction of health taxes has seen reduced consumption and increased revenue, a statement said, calling for a review of some countries' continued tax incentives for 'unhealthy industries' such as tobacco. NCDs account for more than 75% of all deaths across the world, according to the WHO. Tobacco on its own causes more than seven million deaths every year. Increasing taxation would generate an extra $1 trillion in public revenue in the next 10 years, it added. 'Between 2012 and 2022, nearly 140 countries raised tobacco taxes, which resulted in an increase of real prices by over 50% on average, showing that large-scale change is possible,' the WHO said.
South China Morning Post
02-07-2025
- Health
- South China Morning Post
WHO pushes for 50% price increase on sugary drinks, alcohol and tobacco
The World Health Organization is pushing countries to raise the prices of sugary drinks, alcohol and tobacco by 50 per cent over the next 10 years through taxation, its strongest backing yet for taxes to help tackle chronic public health problems. The United Nations health agency said the move would help cut consumption of the products, which contribute to diseases like diabetes and some cancers, as well as raise money at a time when development aid is shrinking and public debt rising. 'Health taxes are one of the most efficient tools we have,' said Jeremy Farrar, WHO assistant director general of health promotion and disease prevention and control. 'It's time to act.' The WHO launched the push, which it is called '3 by 35' at the UN Finance for Development conference in Seville. WHO said that its tax initiative could raise US$1 trillion by 2035 based on evidence from health taxes in countries such as Colombia and South Africa. The WHO has backed tobacco taxes and price rises for decades, and has called for taxes on alcohol and sugary drinks in recent years, but this is the first time it has suggested a target price rise for all three products.
Zawya
02-07-2025
- Health
- Zawya
South Africa: Cansa brings health experts and services to the workplace
'We know only too well that the workplace often leaves employees little or no time to seek out medical advice from healthcare professionals,' says Lorraine Govender, the Cancer Association of South Africa's (Cansa) national manager: health promotion. 'We also know that this often leads people to input their symptoms into Google or other search platforms, hoping to get sensible answers and advice.' Most people are reluctant to seek proactive medical advice due to a complex interplay of social, cultural, psychological, and systemic factors. Practical barriers such as having to take off from work, long waiting times, limited access to healthcare providers, are some of the factors. Cancer symptoms alone draw hundreds of thousands of Google searches each month worldwide. ''Dr Google' is a poor substitute for regular cancer screenings and medical check-ups by health experts,' warns Govender. 'The generic and sometimes conflicting advice generated by Google and AI-powered services such as Copilot and ChatGPT, often leads to more confusion and can result in missed diagnoses of serious illness. 'As Corporate Wellness Week (1 to 5 July) approaches, it is an excellent time to come up with solutions to this challenge,' adds Govender. Bringing a health solution into the workplace A proactive approach by companies to employee health, lowers the risk of illness and chronic diseases, resulting in fewer sick days and less absenteeism rates. This directly contributes to maintaining business continuity and reducing disruptions. Cansa has developed a comprehensive employee wellness programme that brings general health and cancer screening, as well as health-boosting advice into the workplace. 'We take a multi-faceted approach to assist employees to lower their risk of not only cancer, but also other non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease,' explains Govender. 'Through a range of services and activities, we promote the benefits of a healthy work environment and how employees can improve their health through positive lifestyle changes and regular medical check-ups.' Employers should be aware that receiving a cancer diagnosis does not mean employees would have to work fewer hours or quit their careers. Although cancer can be devastating, the likelihood of a successful outcome is significantly increased when the disease is detected early. The benefits are far reaching for both employers and employees. When companies bring health services into the workplace, it helps them to towards achieving several sustainable development goals, such as ensuring the good health and wellbeing of employees, enabling a healthy workforce that contributes to productivity, job satisfaction and sustainable economic growth, and promoting inclusivity and equality in the workplace. Employee wellness programmes are not just a perk, but a strategic investment for employers seeking to improve organisational performance and workplace culture. Investing in employee wellness builds a healthier, more resilient, and motivated workforce, which is crucial for organisational success in a competitive business environment. How it works This service is paid for by the employer and is free to employees. "The frequency of the programme throughout the year is based on each company's needs. We can run it as a one-day initiative, extend it over several days, or repeat it multiple times a year – depending on the organisation's request,' explains Govender. In addition to providing health screenings and advice, Cansa's corporate wellness days or events may include educational talks and interactive exhibitions featuring cancer-related topics and tips to lower cancer risk. Presentations, for example, can focus on the top cancers affecting men and affecting women in South Africa. Leaflets on these topics and more may be provided, as well as models to help to demonstrate self-examination techniques. Help to reduce cancer statistics Concludes Govender: 'The importance of health risk assessments and screenings cannot be overstated. Cancer is a fast-growing health priority around the world and in South Africa. According to the 2021 Percept Report, the incidence of cancer in South Africa, is set to double to 220,000 new cases a year by 2030.' Companies can help to reduce South Africa's cancer risk by working with Cansa to reduce their employees' health risks.
Zawya
17-05-2025
- Health
- Zawya
DoH – Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre partner with Emirates Foundation for a healthier Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, UAE: At the 25th World Conference of the International Union for Health Promotion and Education (IUHPE) being hosted in Abu Dhabi for the first time, Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) and Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC), announced a strategic partnership with Emirates Foundation to scale the impact of the Active Abu Dhabi initiative, aimed at promoting long-term behavioral change in health and wellbeing. The initiative will now scale across the Emirate, integrating behavioral science, technology, and public and private sector collaboration to improve long-term health outcomes. The expanded initiative builds on the foundation laid by Active Abu Dhabi, now leveraging the full strength and expertise of ADPHC and DoH to address health more holistically, integrating nutrition, sleep, movement, and mental wellbeing into its core framework. Designed to be practical and grounded in real-life behaviors, the initiative is exclusively inclusive, made for people of all ages and backgrounds. From helping children form healthy habits early to supporting adults in making better daily choices and enabling senior citizens to stay active and well, it is built to meet people where they are. 'Partnering with Active Abu Dhabi reflects our commitment to a future-focused, prevention-led healthcare model,' said H.E. Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi. 'Through this collaboration, we aim to transform the community into one where individuals are encouraged and supported to prioritize their physical and mental wellbeing at every stage of life. This approach enables us to address the underlying causes of lifestyle-related diseases and build a culture of health across Abu Dhabi.' This comprehensive initiative supports public health campaigns centered on nutrition, movement, sleep, and mental wellbeing to elevate community health. By uniting individuals and families, it inspires a reimagined approach to health, delivering enduring benefits for all. H.E. Dr. Rashed Al Suwaidi, Director General, Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre commented, 'With a growing focus on health and wellbeing at the core of its strategic agenda, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a global hub for health innovation, leadership, and impact. Our mission at ADPHC is to create a healthier Abu Dhabi for future generations, and our partnership with Active Abu Dhabi provides a powerful platform for that. By integrating public health messaging with behavioral science, we are nurturing an environment where people are supported to make better daily choices, transforming health into an active, inclusive, and achievable pursuit.' HE Ahmed Taleb Al Shamsi, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Foundation said, 'This collaboration with ADPHC and DoH gives Active Abu Dhabi the momentum to expand its reach and provide people with the knowledge, tools, and motivation to take control of their health in a meaningful and lasting way.' This partnership aligns with Abu Dhabi's wider strategic goal of transforming its healthcare model from reactive care to proactive health management, empowering communities to make sustainable, positive lifestyle changes. IUHPE, celebrating its 25th World Conference this year, praised the partnership for its strategic approach to public health, and behavioural change. 'This partnership exemplifies the kind of multisectoral collaboration we advocate for at IUHPE,' said Sione Tu'itahi, President of IUHPE. ' By combining the credibility of government leadership with the agility of the non-profit sector and the insights of behavioral science, Abu Dhabi is setting a new global benchmark in health promotion.' In the coming months, the partners are set to introduce a wide range of community activations and digital platforms designed to engage citizens across all segments of society. Campaigns will be anchored in principles such as social norms, intrinsic motivation, and reward mechanisms to ensure long-term impact. About Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) Established in 2019 under Law No. (14), Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) is the first dedicated public health entity of its kind in the region. ADPHC is committed to safeguarding the health and wellbeing of Abu Dhabi's population by advancing public and preventive health practices and ensuring a safe environment for the Emirate's workforce. Through an integrated Public Health Management System, the Centre promotes innovation, excellence, and proactive health solutions aligned with global best practices. Guided by values such as creativity, integrity, teamwork, and responsibility, ADPHC strives to build a healthier, safer, and more resilient society. About the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) Department of Health - Abu Dhabi is the regulative body of the Healthcare Sector in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and ensures excellence in healthcare for the community by monitoring the health status of the population. DoH defines the strategy for the health system, monitors and analyses the health status of the population and performance of the system. In addition, DoH shapes the regulatory framework for the health system, inspects against regulations, enforce standards, and encourages adoption of world – class best practices and performance targets by all healthcare service providers in the Emirate. DoH also drives programs to increase awareness and adoption of healthy living standards among the residents of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi in addition to regulating scope of services, premiums, and reimbursement rates of the health system in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. About IUHPE: Founded in 1951 by Dr Jacques Parisot, the International Union for Health Promotion and Education (IUHPE) is a unique worldwide, independent and professional association of individual and institutional members committed to improving health and wellbeing. IUHPE supports actions and engages in projects, locally and globally, that empower people to control their own health and that promote well-being societies, e.g. education, community action and the development of healthy public policy. About Emirates Foundation: Emirates Foundation was established on April 12, 2005, as an initiative by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. Its Board of Directors is chaired by His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Office of Development and Martyrs' Families Affairs at the Presidential Court. Emirates Foundation is a national institution that works in partnership with the public and private sectors to establish social responsibility through the implementation of research-based programs that meet the needs of the UAE towards sustainable community development. The foundation works to identify and understand the challenges facing UAE society and create appropriate opportunities for developing national competencies and activating their role in society through smart program platforms. It also works to spread creative awareness through marketing and communications and establish an entrepreneurship model characterized by effectiveness, high values, and quality performance.
Zawya
15-05-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre and Organon partner to enhance women's health in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre signed an agreement with Organon, a global healthcare company dedicated to advancing women's health, at the 25th IUHPE World Conference on Health Promotion. Both entities will collaborate to enhance women's health by focusing on key areas of intervention and addressing critical health challenges that uniquely or disproportionately affect women. The agreement was signed by His Excellency Dr Rashed Alsuwaidi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre and Ramy Koussa, Middle East, Turkey and Africa Associate Vice President at Organon. The agreement marks a shared commitment to advancing women's health outcomes in Abu Dhabi. The partnership aims to enhance women's health and support a healthy pregnancy journey through various initiatives. These include delivering awareness campaigns, research and sharing insights on priority women's health conditions. The collaboration will support the exchange of knowledge and expertise on key women's health priorities, including cardiovascular, reproductive, and maternal health, improving healthcare for women in the emirate and driving meaningful health outcomes. The partnership will also deliver evidence-based educational resources that empower women throughout their health journey. His Excellency Dr Rashed Alsuwaidi, Director General of ADPHC, said: ' We are committed to prioritising the health of women and children as a cornerstone of our vision for a healthier future. Our goal is to create a supportive healthcare environment that empowers women throughout their lives, by not only addressing immediate health needs but also supporting long-term wellbeing and prevention, ensuring that every woman in the Emirate has access to exceptional, tailored healthcare, adopting a proactive and preventive approach to lead healthier, longer lives. Ramy Koussa, META Associate Vice President at Organon, said: 'We are privileged to partner with the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, reflecting our shared commitment to advancing the standard of healthcare for women in the emirate. At Organon, our commitment to being here for her health drives us to make a meaningful difference in women's lives, and this agreement is a testament to our dedication to working collaboratively with government entities to achieve this goal. By uniting our expertise and resources, we strive to enhance the health and wellbeing of women across Abu Dhabi. "This partnership underscores our dedication to addressing critical challenges in women's health both here in the UAE and throughout the MENA region. By combining our expertise with the leadership of the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, we aim to create impactful programmes that support women at every stage of their health journey. This collaboration will complement our broader efforts throughout the MENA region to advance women's health in several areas such as cardiovascular health and chronic conditions like migraine.' Organon will also work closely with the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre to organise educational forums, counselling sessions, and training workshops aimed at empowering women with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed health decisions. By integrating efforts and exchanging expertise, Organon aims to strengthen the support system for women across various aspects of their health, ensuring a holistic approach to their wellbeing.
