WHO faces $600m shortfall this year as US leaves
LONDON/GENEVA: Hundreds of officials from the World Health Organization will join donors and diplomats in Geneva from Monday with one question dominating their thoughts - how to cope with crises from mpox to cholera without their main funder, the United States.
The annual assembly, with its week of sessions, votes and policy decisions, usually showcases the scale of the UN agency set up to tackle disease outbreaks, approve vaccines and support health systems worldwide. This year - since US President Donald Trump started the year-long process to leave the WHO with an executive order on his first day in office in January - the main theme is scaling down.
'Our goal is to focus on the high-value stuff,' Daniel Thornton, the WHO's director of coordinated resource mobilization, told Reuters. Just what that 'high-value stuff' will be is up for discussion. Health officials have said the WHO's work in providing guidelines for countries on new vaccines and treatments for conditions from obesity to HIV will remain a priority.
One WHO slideshow for the event, shared with donors and seen by Reuters, suggested work on approving new medicines and responding to outbreaks would be protected, while training programs and offices in wealthier countries could be closed. The United States had provided around 18 percent of the WHO's funding. 'We've got to make do with what we have,' said one Western diplomat who asked not to be named.
Staff have been getting ready - cutting managers and budgets - ever since Trump's January announcement in a rush of directives and aid cuts that have disrupted a string of multilateral pacts and initiatives. The year-long delay, mandated under US law, means the US is still a WHO member - its flag still flies outside the Geneva HQ - until its official departure date on January 21, 2026.
Trump - who accused the WHO of mishandling COVID, which it denies - muddied the waters days after his statement by saying he might consider rejoining the agency if its staff 'clean it up'. But global health envoys say there has since been little sign of a change of heart. So the WHO is planning for life with a $600 million hole in the budget for this year and cuts of 21 percent over the next two-year period.
As the United States prepares to exit, China is set to become the biggest provider of state fees - one of the WHO's main streams of funding alongside donations. China's contribution will rise from just over 15 percent to 20 percent of the total state fee pot under an overhaul of the funding system agreed in 2022. 'We have to adapt ourselves to multilateral organizations without the Americans. Life goes on,' Chen Xu, China's ambassador to Geneva, told reporters last month. Others have suggested this might be a time for an even broader overhaul, rather than continuity under a reshuffled hierarchy of backers.
'Does WHO need all its committees? Does it need to be publishing thousands of publications each year?' said Anil Soni, chief executive of the WHO Foundation, an independent fund-raising body for the agency. He said the changes had prompted a re-examination of the agency's operations, including whether it should be focused on details like purchasing petrol during emergencies.
There was also the urgent need to make sure key projects do not collapse during the immediate cash crisis. That meant going to donors with particular interests in those areas, including pharmaceutical companies and philanthropic groups, Soni said.
The ELMA Foundation, which focuses on children's health in Africa with offices in the US, South Africa and Uganda, has already recently stepped in with $2 million for the Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network known as Gremlin - more than 700 labs which track infectious disease threats, he added. — Reuters
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arab Times
a day ago
- Arab Times
At-home health tests are expanding - here's how to choose the right one
NEW YORK, June 3, (AP): The doctor is in - the mailbox, that is. You can now do self-administered tests for everything from thyroid function to HIV in the privacy of your own home - and that list continues to grow, as the Food and Drug Administration recently approved the first at-home cervical cancer test. While the tests can make it easier for people to access health care and can be helpful for those who have extreme anxiety about sensitive or invasive medical exams, experts warn that most of the tests cannot replace an actual in-person visit. Here's what doctors say you can test for at home, and when you should make the trek to your physician's office. There are two kinds of at-home tests.' In one type, the patient collects the sample and sends it off to a lab; the new cervical cancer test is like this. The other gives an instant result - think COVID-19 and pregnancy tests. HIV home-testing kits can improve rates of diagnosing sexually transmitted infections in rural communities and help people who are nervous about going to the doctor to seek a sensitive test, said Dr. Joseph Cherabie, an infectious diseases specialist in St. Louis. "You really want to get people to care as quickly as possible, but some people could be very anxious about that results as well," Cherabie said. "And they have very negative reactions.' Labs are required to report a positive HIV test, instead of putting the onus on the patient who took the test, Cherabie said, and, often, the patient is matched up with HIV support services. "If you are part of a sexual and gender minority community, going to a doctor's office can be full of a lot of historical trauma, and you may prefer to just do testing at home without anyone judging you or asking you invasive questions about your sex life,' Cherabie said. The new cervical cancer test - which tests for strains of human papillomavirus, or HPV - involves a testing swab that's like a tampon, said Dr. Susan Modesitt, a gynecologic oncologist at Emory University in Atlanta. It is not, Modesitt said, a replacement for a Pap smear, the exam in which a metal speculum is inserted in the vagina to scrape cervix cells. A doctor's visit also involves a pelvic exam, a chance to talk about abnormal bleeding - a sign of endometrial cancer - and other symptoms and issues, like menopause or STIs. "There are so many other reasons to see your doctor and get an exam outside of a cervical cancer screening,' she said. The at-home cervical cancer test from Teal Health requires a prescription, and the company said that results are not left for the patient to interpret. Some at-home tests can replace a trip to the doctor's office. That's especially true in rural areas, where it can be difficult to get a colonoscopy. "The colonoscopy requires a pre-op, and you have to drive maybe 70 miles for it,' said Dr. Steven Furr, board chair of the American Academy of Family Physicians who practices in rural Alabama. "You get anesthesia. It's actually almost like a surgical procedure in many ways. "So, for a lot of people, that's pretty arduous. That's where an at-home test can come in handy.' But, Furr said, if your test reveals issues, you need to go to your doctor. Plus, patients should always discuss test results with their physician instead of interpreting them on their own, he said. If you have symptoms of what you're testing for, go to the doctor. At-home colon cancer tests aren't the right option for people with a history of colon cancer or high-risk conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, said Dr. Zachariah Foda, a gastroenterologist at Johns Hopkins. He added that they're also not recommended for people who are having GI symptoms. While there are tests for many things - running anywhere from $15 to $400, depending on what is being evaluated - Furr said it's essential to make sure that your test is FDA-approved so you can better trust the results. "Anytime we get people involved in their own health care and help them understand what's going on, I think that's a good thing and it gives us a chance to talk,' he said. "Any kind of screening is better than no screening.'
Arab Times
2 days ago
- Arab Times
Expert tips on the best time and way to take vitamin D for better absorption
NEW YORK, June 2: When browsing the supplement aisle, you'll often see multivitamins, omega-3s, and probiotics taking up most of the shelf space. However, if your multivitamin doesn't include vitamin D, your doctor might suggest adding a separate vitamin D supplement to your daily routine. Known as the 'sunshine vitamin,' vitamin D is something many people don't get enough of, so if you're wondering when is the best time to take it, here's what you need to know. What is vitamin D? Roxana Ehsani, M.S., RD, CSSD, explains that vitamin D is one of four fat-soluble vitamins (the others being vitamins A, E, and K). Our bodies produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, and we can also obtain it through certain foods. Vitamin D plays many essential roles in the body, including supporting the immune system, muscle and nerve function, and helping the body absorb calcium. Despite its importance, research shows that about 25% of Americans are deficient in vitamin D. This deficiency can be attributed to limited dietary sources of vitamin D, reduced sun exposure during winter, living in areas with little sunlight, or habits like covering the skin when outdoors. The recommended daily intake of vitamin D for most older adults is 20 micrograms (800 international units, IU). For context, one egg or a 3-ounce can of tuna contains just over 1 mcg, 3 ounces of sockeye salmon has around 12 mcg, and 3 ounces of trout offer about 14 mcg. Unless you consume fish like salmon or trout daily or take cod liver oil (which has 34 mcg), it's difficult to meet the recommended intake through diet alone, as most foods provide only small amounts. In the U.S., fortified milk is the main dietary source of vitamin D, containing approximately 100 IU per 8-ounce serving. However, to meet the daily value, you'd need to drink over a quart of milk each day. Milk consumption has been decreasing in recent years, which some experts believe contributes to rising vitamin D deficiency rates. Why take a supplement? Because of these challenges, many people choose to take vitamin D supplements. However, it's important not only to take the correct dose but also to ensure your body absorbs it effectively. Here's what you should consider when deciding how and when to take your vitamin D. Morning or evening? Current scientific consensus indicates that the time of day you take vitamin D doesn't significantly affect how well it's absorbed. Some prefer taking supplements in the morning as part of their routine before the day starts, while others keep them handy in the evening after finishing chores. The key is consistency—pick a time you can stick to so you don't forget. What factors affect vitamin D supplementation? Several factors can influence your vitamin D levels or your need for supplementation. Health conditions like osteoporosis, osteopenia, depression, kidney or liver disease, and a family history of neurological disorders may impact your vitamin D status. David Davidson, M.D., stresses that people with absorption issues, such as those with inflammatory bowel disease or who have undergone gastric bypass surgery, should work closely with their doctors to tailor their vitamin D dosage and timing. Body size can also affect how vitamin D is absorbed, so individualized advice from your healthcare provider is important before choosing a supplement. If you experience side effects like nausea, constipation, or changes in appetite after taking supplements, consult your doctor. Personal preference matters Incorporating vitamin D into your daily habits is essential to ensure you take it regularly. Many people find success by 'habit stacking,' which means pairing vitamin D intake with another daily routine, such as brushing teeth. For example, placing your supplements next to your toothbrush can serve as a helpful reminder. Always check with a healthcare professional to determine the best timing for you, but generally, the 'best' time to take vitamin D is whatever fits your schedule and ensures consistency. Take vitamin D with food Since vitamin D is fat-soluble, taking it with a meal containing healthy fats can improve absorption. For example, if you eat almond-butter toast in the morning, take your supplement then, as almond butter has healthy fats. Similarly, a salad with walnuts and vinaigrette at dinner is a good pairing. You might also take vitamin D with a glass of whole milk or yogurt, which provides calcium that works synergistically with vitamin D. If eating with your supplement isn't always practical, such as when meals are on the go, discuss your schedule with a healthcare provider to find a good alternative. Types of vitamin D There are two main forms of vitamin D: D2 and D3. Vitamin D2 is found in UV-exposed plants, fungi, and fortified foods, while D3 comes from sunlight and animal-based sources. Both forms are beneficial, but D3 is more bioavailable, meaning your body uses it more efficiently. This means you may need a higher dose of D2 to get the same effect as D3. Before starting supplementation, talk to your healthcare provider about which form is best for you. If you're already taking vitamin D, verify that you have the correct type. The best time to take vitamin D is when it fits seamlessly into your daily routine, making it easier to remember. Choose vitamin D3 over D2 for better absorption. Ideally, take your supplement with a meal containing fat to maximize uptake. For example, if you prefer taking vitamin D early in the morning or right before bed, accompany it with a small serving of nuts or nut butter to boost absorption and gain additional nutritional benefits.
Kuwait Times
3 days ago
- Kuwait Times
Panel urges regional unity against tobacco industry tactics
KUWAIT: On the occasion of World No-Tobacco Day, observed annually on May 31, the Kuwait Society for Controlling Smoking and Cancer hosted a virtual panel discussion titled: 'Decision Makers... Methods of Promoting Smoking.' The event brought together experts and specialists in tobacco control to examine the influence of industry tactics and propose effective counter-strategies. Dr Hessa Al-Shaheen, a board member of the society, moderated the discussion, welcoming participants and underscoring the need for dialogue between decision-makers and civil society to shape policies that curb tobacco use. Key speakers included Dr Khalid Ahmed Al-Saleh, Chairman of the Society; Dr Ibtihal Fadel, Chair of the Eastern Mediterranean NCD Alliance; Dr Fatima Al-Awa, Regional Advisor for the Tobacco Free Initiative at the World Health Organization (WHO); and Dr Amal Al-Yahya, Rapporteur of the National Program to Combat Smoking. The symposium opened with a presentation by Dr Fatima Al-Awa, titled 'Debunking Tobacco Companies.' She highlighted the misleading marketing practices of tobacco companies targeting youth, particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean region, where consumption is on the rise. Dr Al-Awa warned of the industry's efforts to influence health policies, which undermines regional tobacco control efforts. She concluded by presenting WHO's key recommendations—strengthening governance, protecting policy-making from commercial influence, and increasing taxes on tobacco products—as critical steps to reduce consumption. Dr Hessa Al-Shaheen Dr Khalid Al-Saleh Next, Dr Khalid Al-Saleh delivered a presentation on 'The Health Effects of Smoking and its Alternatives.' He reviewed recent data linking tobacco use to various cancers and debunked claims that alternatives like e-cigarettes are 'less harmful.' Citing emerging scientific evidence, he stressed that no form of tobacco use is safe and that full cessation remains the only effective option. Dr Al-Saleh emphasized the importance of regional collaboration among NGOs, in partnership with WHO, to counter the influence of tobacco companies. Dr Ibtihal Fadel followed with a presentation on 'The Role of NGOs in Tobacco Control,' emphasizing the importance of activating civil society's role in shaping health policy and public awareness campaigns. She noted that social media is a powerful tool for reaching young people—the primary target of tobacco advertising—and urged NGOs to expose deceptive marketing and push for stricter laws. Dr Fadel also highlighted successful case studies from the region and called for a cultural shift that frames smoking as a socially and medically unacceptable behavior. She concluded by pointing to the upcoming high-level meeting on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) as a vital opportunity to mobilize support for regional and global tobacco control. Finally, Dr Amal Al-Yahya presented on 'The Importance of an Integrated Approach in Confronting the Tobacco Industry.' She shared recent data on smoking rates in Kuwait, particularly among youth, and outlined national policies aligned with WHO's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. Dr Al-Yahya advocated for a cross-sectoral strategy—engaging health, education, and legislative bodies—to counter industry influence and strengthen preventive efforts. The session closed with remarks from Dr Hessa Al-Shaheen, who thanked the speakers and participants for their contributions, highlighting the value of continued collaboration and scientific dialogue in this critical public health area. This event is part of the society's broader mission to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco, advocate for stronger public health policies, and promote smoke-free environments in line with Kuwait's national and international commitments.
