2011 in review: key health issues
December 2011
In 2011, there was important progress in a number of areas. Reports published by WHO on AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria all indicated fewer deaths – and fewer new infections. The UN General Assembly met to agree a global agenda for noncommunicable diseases – only the second time (after HIV/AIDS) that a health-related theme was selected as the topic for a UN high-level meeting.
Natural disasters and conflict took their toll. The year was marked by the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear power plant damage in Japan. Conflicts disrupted health services and added to health demands in a number of countries, notably in Libya, where WHO contributed to the health response, providing expertise and supplies. 2011 also continued to be marked by the world's financial crisis and WHO worked to better position the Organization to effectively and efficiently improve health.
This photo feature presents a selection of some of the major health issues in 2011.
Corporate resources
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The world health report
Report on global public health and key statistics -
World health statistics report
WHO's annual compilation of data from its Member States -
International travel and health
Publication on travel risks, precautions and vaccination requirements -
International Health Regulations (IHR)
Global rules to enhance national, regional and global public health security