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2024 global health: WHO reports key updates

The World Health Organization reflected on this year’s key health achievements and challenges, highlighting global progress in disease elimination, immunization, and tackling noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization / X/@DrTedros

2024 is marked by complexity and challenges in the world of health and science. The World Health Organization (WHO) reflects on key moments from the past 12 months, highlighting the progress and setbacks that shaped global health. 

In an X post, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization wrote, “As the year comes to an end, we express our ceaseless gratitude and admiration for health workers and carers everywhere.”

In 2024, WHO focused on addressing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, which are preventable but hindered by industry influence. The Global Report on Tobacco Use showed a decline in global tobacco use, though youth usage remains high. NCDs continue to strain low-income countries, requiring urgent action to meet SDGs by 2030.

Global health challenges include rising inactivity, alcohol and drug-related deaths, and neurological conditions. WHO advocated for action on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and adopted resolutions on climate change and social participation.



Immunization efforts saved 154 million lives since 1974, and new vaccines are set to save more. WHO strengthened global health security through the International Health Regulations and pandemic preparedness. WHO also launched the WHO Academy to empower health workers and is tackling misinformation that undermines public trust.

Here's a quarterly overview of key events:

1st Quarter

In January 2024, several countries, including Brazil, Chad, India, Jordan, Pakistan, Timor-Leste, and Viet Nam, successfully eliminated neglected tropical diseases such as human African trypanosomiasis, leprosy, lymphatic filariasis, and trachoma.

In February, Egypt achieved malaria-free status after a century-long battle, while Cabo Verde also joined the ranks of malaria-free countries.

By March, the Americas region was reverified as measles-free, through successful vaccination and control efforts. 

2nd Quarter

In April, Guinea eliminated maternal and neonatal tetanus, significantly improving maternal and child health.

In May, Belize, Jamaica, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines eliminated mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis.

June saw Namibia reach a major milestone in the fight against mother-to-child transmission of HIV and hepatitis B.

3rd Quarter

In July, a WHO report highlighted the growing rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide, stressing the need for intensified efforts to meet 2025 targets.

August brought the release of WHO's World Health Statistics 2024 edition, which reviewed over 50 health-related indicators from the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), offering valuable insights into global health progress.

In September, WHO released its 2024 Evaluation Annual Report, assessing the organization's activities and impact over the past year. 

4th Quarter

October saw the publication of updated data on health indicators from the WHO Global Health Observatory, which supports evidence-based decision-making.

In November, the Chief Medical Officer’s annual report focused on health in urban settings, outlining both opportunities and challenges for city populations.

Finally, in December, WHO published its Annual Report 2024, summarizing the organization’s achievements and challenges throughout the year.

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