Latest news with #SustainableDevelopmentGoal3
Herald Malaysia
16-07-2025
- Health
- Herald Malaysia
Holy See: Policies must support families, motherhood, equality
The Holy See's Permanent Observer to the United Nations, Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, calls for nations to implement policies that support and protect families, motherhood, and maternity, along with the promotion of equality between women and men. Jul 16, 2025 File photo of a mother and her child By Deborah Castellano Lubov"Policies that support and protect families, motherhood, and maternity, need to be implemented alongside the promotion of equality between women and men." The Holy See's Permanent Observer to the United Nations, Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, expressed this during the course of the High-Level Political Forum debates on the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3) on ensure healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages, on 14 July, and on Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5), on achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls, on 15 July, at the UN in New York. SDG 3: Ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being Archbishop Caccia reflected on the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 3, highlighting how important it is to underscore that health is not merely the absence of illness, but "a holistic state of physical, psychological, social, spiritual and emotional wellbeing," and "a vital part of integral human development." Yet, he lamented, that progress towards the achievement of SDG 3 remains uneven. "Persistent obstacles, including fragile health systems, inadequate funding, and an increasing burden of non-communicable diseases continue to exacerbate existing health disparities." To overcome these challenges and realise health and well-being for all, he noted, comprehensive and integrated policies that recognise the interdependence of SDG3 with other Goals should be adopted. The Permanent Observer also insisted that achieving health and wellbeing for all, also calls for special attention to be paid to the most vulnerable, including the unborn, children, the elderly, persons with disabilities, migrants and those living in conflict-affected areas. In this context, he exhorted, "Ideological or economic agendas must never shape healthcare; it must remain person-centred." For this reason, the Archbishop reiterated, faith-based organisations, including Catholic health institutions play "a vital role," noting that strengthening partnerships with these institutions could help to keep healthcare person-centred. With regard to meaningfully contributing to healthcare, Archbishop Caccia recalled that the Catholic Church, which runs approximately a quarter of all health facilities worldwide, will continue to provide care to the poorest and those in the most remote areas. SDG 5: Achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls The Permanent Observer also welcomed the discussion on Sustainable Development Goal 5, dedicated to achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls, which was held the following day. "Gender equality," he stated, "is rooted in the equal God-given dignity of every man and woman, 'inalienably grounded in his or her very being, which prevails in and beyond every circumstance […]. This principle, which is fully recognizable even by reason alone,' he continued, 'underlines the primacy of the human person and the protection of human rights.'' Archbishop Caccia said that recognizing this equal dignity is a critical starting point for achieving SDG5. "However," he warned, "recognition alone is not enough," for "equality requires creating conditions that enable the integral development of women and girls, including access to quality education and healthcare, and decent work and participation in every sphere of life for women." Archbishop Caccia said that any meaningful discussion of SDG5 must address the systemic obstacles to the integral development of millions of women and girls, including poverty, violence and exclusion. "Addressing these injustices," he underscored, "is a moral imperative and a prerequisite for long-term development and progress." In this token, the Permanent Observer insisted, "the roles that women and men play within families and communities must be protected." "Policies that support and protect families, motherhood, and maternity," he reaffirmed, "need to be implemented alongside the promotion of equality between women and men," as he stressed that the dignity of every woman and girl "must be always at the centre of development efforts and approaches that reduce women to mere instruments of economic or political agendas are to be avoided." Finally, Archbishop Caccia said that in the final five years leading up to the realization of the 2030 Agenda, his Delegation "calls for a renewed commitment to the integral development of every woman and girl."--Vatican News
Borneo Post
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
10th Kuching Zumba Fiesta aims to break two national records
Wee (centre) receives a mock cheque representing sponsorship from KTS Group for the upcoming Kuching Zumba Fiesta during the press conference. On his right is Zaiedi. KUCHING (July 9): The upcoming Kuching Zumba Fiesta will not only mark a decade of promoting healthy living and community bonding, but also aim to break two national records recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records, said Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng. Returning on Aug 2, the 10th edition of the event promises a grand celebration at the State Hockey Stadium, with organisers hoping to make this milestone year a historic moment for the city. 'When we launched the Kuching Zumba Fiesta in 2015, our goal was simple—to create a fun, welcoming space where people from all walks of life could come together through Zumba,' Wee said during a press conference held at the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) building yesterday. 'Over the years, it has grown into one of Kuching's biggest fitness events.' This year's fiesta will take place from 6.30pm to 10.30pm, with organisers eyeing two record-breaking achievements. The first is to surpass the current record of 9,500 participants for the largest Zumba event in Malaysia, set in Penang in 2023. The second goal is to break the record for the largest 'Chiva in the Dark' Zumba session, which currently stands at 5,360 participants, recorded at Sunway Surf Beach. To cater to the large crowd and enhance the overall experience, Wee added that MBKS will be equipping the venue with a high-powered sound system and a large high-definition LED screen. 'These upgrades aim to ensure that music, choreography, and instructor cues can be seen and heard clearly from all parts of the stadium. 'These enhancements are important not just for entertainment, but also to ensure inclusivity, so that everyone can fully participate no matter where they are standing,' he said. Wee also reaffirmed MBKS' commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on good health and well-being, emphasising that the Zumba Fiesta is more than just a workout session but also serves as a platform for improving physical and mental health while strengthening community ties. In this regard, he said this year's event will include a lucky draw offering attractive prizes. 'Registration is free and open to the public through the iPeople App,' he said, urging everyone, regardless of fitness level or Zumba experience, to join the celebration. Wee added that the fiesta will once again be supported by a dedicated group of local fitness studios and instructors, including Exhilarate Fitness Studio, ZIN Chee Hong, Hit-The-Beat Fitness Studio, ZIN Azeliana Binti Zainuddin, Flylab Athletics, Fitlab Fitness Studio, SHAKE, and KSKKS Studio (Kelab Sukan Kecergasan Kota Samarahan). He expressed appreciation to the event's main sponsor, KTS Group, for its invaluable support and generous sponsorship of RM50,000, which had made it possible to bring the event to life in such a meaningful way. He also thanked Natural Avenue Sdn Bhd, which had contributed RM10,000, and Gatorade, which will be providing over 10,000 bottles to ensure participants stay hydrated throughout the event. 'We are proud of what we've achieved together over the past decade. The Kuching Zumba Fiesta has grown into more than just an annual gathering as it is now a movement that celebrates health, happiness, and community spirit. 'Let us come together once more under the stars, dancing and celebrating life. Kuching, let us show the nation what we are capable of,' he added. Also present during the press conference was Kuching South deputy mayor and the organising chairman for Kuching Festival, Datu Zaiedi Suhaili. Kuching Zumba FIesta lead Malaysia Book of Records wee hong seng
See - Sada Elbalad
26-06-2025
- Health
- See - Sada Elbalad
Arab League Reaffirms Commitment to Drug Prevention on International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
Mohamed Mandour The General Secretariat of the League of Arab States marked the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed annually on June 26, by reaffirming its commitment to advancing coordinated Arab efforts in combating drug abuse and illicit trafficking. In a statement, the General Secretariat emphasized the significance of the occasion as a global call to raise awareness about the devastating impacts of drug use on individuals and communities. It highlighted the importance of preventive measures and cross-border cooperation to achieve the shared goal of a drug-free world. The statement noted that the Council of Arab Health Ministers, during its 62nd ordinary session held in Geneva in 2025, adopted a resolution aimed at unifying Arab efforts to tackle the evolving drug threat. The resolution included a plan to address emerging patterns of prescription and psychotropic drug misuse, incorporating a report from the UAE's Ministry of Interior on controlled substances and aligning with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime's strategy on synthetic drugs. Furthermore, the Council of the League of Arab States, at the Summit level, endorsed Resolution 920 during its 34th ordinary session held in Iraq on May 17, 2025, approving the establishment of an Arab Centre for Combating Drugs. The General Secretariat stressed its commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3—ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all—and to reducing the health and social burdens linked to substance and alcohol abuse. It called for increased awareness, stronger healthcare and social support systems, and better coordination among Arab nations. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean
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Business Standard
24-06-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Child deaths down, vaccinations up-but India's health fight isn't over
India has made notable progress in achieving health targets under the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. From lowering maternal and child mortality to improving immunisation and disease control, key health indicators suggest that the country is on track in several areas. What the UN Human Development Report says about India's health progress According to the UNDP Human Development Report 2025, India's Human Development Index (HDI) has increased by over 53 per cent since 1990—outpacing both global and South Asian averages. This has been driven by robust economic growth and welfare schemes like the National Rural Health Mission and Ayushman Bharat. Life expectancy has climbed to 72 years in 2023, the highest since the index began. 'India's life expectancy reaching its highest level is a testament to the country's recovery from the pandemic and its investments in human development,' said Angela Lusigi, Resident Representative, UNDP India. SDG 3 score rises sharply, says NITI Aayog India's SDG 3 score rose from 52 in 2018 to 77 in 2023, as per the NITI Aayog SDG Index. Multiple states are now classified as 'front-runners' in health outcomes: Maternal mortality dropped to 97 per 100,000 live births. Eight states, including Kerala and Tamil Nadu, have met the 2030 target of 70. Under-5 mortality fell to 32 per 1,000 live births. Kerala leads with just 8 deaths. Child immunisation (age 9–11 months) reached 93.23%, with several states surpassing 100%. HIV incidence remained at 0.05 per 1,000 uninfected individuals; Kerala reported 0.01. Tuberculosis case notification hit 87.13 per cent; Gujarat and UTs like Delhi surpassed national targets. Institutional deliveries stood at 97.18 per cent, with Lakshadweep achieving 100 per cent. Suicide rate was 12 per 100,000 population in 2022. Bihar had the lowest at 1. Malnutrition still affects children and women Despite gains, India still faces serious challenges: 35 per cent of children under five are stunted 19 per cent are wasted 67 per cent of under-five children and 57 per cent of women (15–49) are anaemic These figures from NFHS (2019–21) point to deep-rooted nutritional deficiencies that threaten long-term health outcomes. India's NCD burden rising fast Non-communicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cancer accounted for over 60 per cent of all deaths in India in 2019, according to the NCD portal. Experts warn that without targeted prevention and early detection, the NCD crisis could derail SDG progress. What India must do to stay on track for 2030 To meet SDG 3 goals, experts recommend an integrated strategy that: Expands last-mile healthcare delivery Scales up NCD screening and treatment Closes the nutrition gap in children and women Invests in mental health and injury care Increases funding for primary healthcare As the 2030 deadline approaches, bridging rural–urban divides and ensuring healthcare equity will be crucial to India's success in achieving SDG 3.
Time of India
22-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Govt to release nutrient guidelines for all age groups soon
New Delhi: The government will soon release nutrient prescriptions for all age groups, outlining the minimum requirements of protein, carbohydrates and vitamins for infants, adolescents, adults and the elderly, said people familiar with the matter. The age-based life-cycle nutrition strategy could also propose targeted interventions on discouraging, marketing and advertising of unhealthy foods and promoting healthy foods to people of different age groups. The move is aimed at doing away with the problems of undernourishment, excess weight and obesity, a key step in the direction of achieving India's commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 3, related to good health and well-being, and to creating a 'Healthy India by 2047', a senior government official told ET. In India, a body mass index of 23 and 24.9 kg/m² is considered overweight, while a BMI of 25 kg/m² or higher is classified as obese. The NITI Aayog, the government's premier think tank, has firmed up an age-wise nutrition strategy after extensive stakeholder consultations for more than a year and is expected to submit its report in a month, the official said on condition of anonymity. The individual-level report, which will be advisory in nature, will be followed by community-wise and a national nutrition strategy over the next one year. An outcome-based monitoring and accountability framework will also be put in place to check food intake and its impact on reducing under-nourishment and obesity among different age groups. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier this year flagged the issue of obesity in India, terming it the root cause of many diseases, and urged people to cut down on edible oil consumption by 10% and do regular physical exercise to fight this chronic health condition. A Lancet study forecast that by 2050 one-third of India's population or 449 million will be obese.
