News

Reducing premature deaths from NCDs by 45% − a bold vision discussed by NCD programme directors in Moscow 13-07-2017
More than 100 international experts on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) convened in Moscow, Russian Federation, on 8–9 June 2017. Together they discussed the feasibility of the WHO European Region exceeding the global target and reducing premature mortality from NCDs by 45% by 2030.
New WHO report on trends in adolescent obesity 11-07-2017
On 17 May 2017 at the 24th European Congress on Obesity in Porto, Portugal, Dr João Breda, Head of the WHO European Office for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases, launched the new WHO report “Adolescent obesity and related behaviours: trends and inequalities in the WHO European Region, 2002–2014”.
Prevention of noncommunicable diseases in Latvia: focus on food product improvement and food reformulation 04-07-2017
On 31 May 2017, WHO conducted a workshop in Riga, Latvia, on strategies to reduce salt and other selected nutrients for food product improvement. It jointly organized the event with the Centre for Disease Prevention and Control of Latvia, the Ministry of Health of Latvia and Riga Stradins University.
Prevention of NCDs in Latvia: a roadmap for physical activity and the launch of Latvian COSI report 04-07-2017
On 29–30 May 2017, WHO/Europe conducted a technical visit to Riga, Latvia, on the prevention of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) with a specific focus on the promotion of physical activity. The visit also included the launch of the Latvian WHO Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI) report.
Communicating about noncommunicable diseases and their risk factors: workshop in Malta for journalists from countries participating in the WHO Small Countries Initiative 03-07-2017
The Fourth High-level Meeting of the Small Countries Initiative took place in St Julian’s, Malta, on 26–27 June 2017. All eight small countries participating in the Initiative (Andorra, Cyprus, Iceland, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, and San Marino) were represented.
Training course on prevention and control of NCDs for decision-makers in the Russian Federation 27-06-2017
Twenty-two decision-makers from 7 regions of the Russian Federation participated in the WHO training course on prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in the Russian Federation. The 4-day course took place on 15–18 May 2017 in Moscow.
Moscow hosts media launch of Russian HBSC report on adolescent obesity trends 27-06-2017
On 6 June 2017 in Moscow, Russian Federation, the WHO European Office for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases with the support of the Russian Ministry of Health held a press conference to present the Russian-language version of the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) report on adolescent obesity.
Strong commitment in Serbia to expand screening and brief interventions on alcohol consumption 27-06-2017
Identifying individuals who drink at harmful levels and providing advice on limiting alcohol consumption – known as screening and brief intervention (SBI) – is an important policy option for health promotion and disease prevention in the European action plan to reduce the harmful use of alcohol 2012–2020. WHO promotes the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) to identify individuals who are drinking at harmful levels.
Parliament in Estonia approves legislation taxing soft drinks 23-06-2017
The Estonian Parliament has approved legislation taxing soft drinks to reduce sugar consumption, improve health and raise revenue. This initiative is based on the strong and growing international evidence that this measure is effective in settings where soft drink consumption is a significant contributor to sugar and energy intake. The decision was also informed by the joint work of WHO/Europe and the Ministry of Social Affairs to review the evidence and model policy options within the Estonian context.
Health system challenges and opportunities for better NCD outcomes, second joint mission, Serbia, 24–28 April 2017 21-06-2017
Together with national experts, the WHO team continued a country assessment that aimed to identify and assess those areas of health systems that could potentially contribute to accelerating gains in key NCD outcomes, while producing pragmatic and actionable policy recommendations. During this mission, the Serbian health system was reviewed, specifically focusing on the coverage of individual services related to the assessment and management of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and stroke, as well as early detection and treatment of cancer.
New WHO Collaborating Centre for Physical Activity and Health 19-06-2017
WHO recently designated the University of Zurich (Switzerland) as the new WHO Collaborating Centre for Physical Activity and Health. The Physical Activity and Health Unit and other groups of the Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI) will support the implementation of the Physical activity strategy for the WHO European Region 2016–2025.
Minister of Health of Montenegro visits WHO/Europe 08-06-2017
Dr Kenan Hrapović, Minister of Health of Montenegro, visited WHO/Europe on 6 June 2017 to discuss health priorities and collaboration with the Regional Office. In discussions with Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, the Minister outlined developments in the country, including the establishment of a national influenza centre and an accredited laboratory for measles and rubella surveillance; plans to extend the work of the pulmonary hospital to include diagnostic services for tuberculosis and cancer; and plans to set up a national reference library on antimicrobial resistance.
Can Europe exceed the global target and reduce premature mortality by 45%? 08-06-2017
WHO convenes a meeting of experts in Moscow to assess progress and opportunities in tackling cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases. Over the past decade, markedly fewer people have died prematurely in the WHO European Region. The decline is considerable, and illuminates a hope that Europe can exceed the bold target of Sustainable Development Goal 3.4 to reduce premature deaths from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) by 33% by 2030.
World Health Assembly Day 8: progress on addressing noncommunicable diseases in focus 31-05-2017
Delegates endorsed an updated set of policy options and interventions to help countries meet global targets to prevent and control noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). It places a particular focus on measures to reduce people’s exposure to factors that increase the risk of developing NCDs. These include taxing tobacco and sugar-sweetened beverages, banning tobacco advertising and reformulating food products to reduce salt content.
Promoting healthy behaviours and ensuring a tobacco-free environment in the context of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in the Russian Federation 31-05-2017
On 27 April 2017 WHO experts and invited speakers participated in a conference hosted by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and the local organizing committee “Russia 2018” on promoting a healthy lifestyle and sport and ensuring a tobacco-free environment during the preparation and staging of the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup and 2018 FIFA World Cup in the Russian Federation. The conference took place in Kazan, Russian Federation, one of 11 host cities of the 2018 World Cup. FIFA events have been smoke-free since 2002 and the 2018 World Cup will also follow this principle. Representatives of host city administrations responsible for ensuring healthy and smoke-free environments during the upcoming international football competition and representatives of federal and regional ministries of health and sport also participated in the conference.
World Health Assembly Day 7: global action plan on response to dementia agreed 30-05-2017
On 29 May 2017, delegates agreed on a global action plan to ensure that work to address dementia is prioritized. In 2015, dementia affected 47 million people worldwide. This is set to increase to 75 million in 2030. The action plan requires Member States to develop, strengthen and implement policies for dementia; respect the equity, dignity and human rights of people with the disease; and support the needs of carers.
Smoke-free in Dushanbe: a café ahead of its time 30-05-2017
In Tajikistan’s capital city of Dushanbe, it is not difficult to find restaurants and cafés serving everything from national dishes like plov and freshly baked non to burgers and salads. But it can be hard to find one where you can guarantee that the person sitting next to you won’t be smoking. This is because Tajikistan currently allows smoking in restaurants, although a new tobacco-control law making its way to the Parliament will limit the ability to do so. Still, one café has already gone smoke-free for its customers and their families.
World No Tobacco Day: tobacco threatens us all 30-05-2017
Tobacco use is the single most preventable cause of death and disease globally, but tobacco threatens more than people’s health and well-being. It also poses a significant threat to economic well-being and, more broadly, to the sustainable development of countries in the WHO European Region and throughout the world. Strong, comprehensive measures to control tobacco use play a critical role in helping countries to make progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
World Health Assembly Day 5 & 6: delegates discuss International Health Regulations, human resources 29-05-2017
Decisions taken by delegates at the World Health Assembly focused on implementing the International Health Regulations (IHR) (2005) and improving the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of sepsis. Delegates emphasized the urgent need to achieve full implementation of the IHR. Public health prizes were also awarded.
World Health Assembly Day 4: polio, pandemic influenza preparedness and health workforce in focus 29-05-2017
On Day 4 of the World Health Assembly, delegates made decisions relating to poliomyelitis (polio), the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Framework and the health workforce. Side events focused on neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
World Health Assembly Day 3: WHO priorities aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 26-05-2017
Delegates at the World Health Assembly approved the Organization’s proposed programme budget of US$4421.5 million for the biennium 2018-2019. This proposed budget sets out the Organization’s priorities in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. It includes increased investments in the new WHO Health Emergencies Programme and combatting antimicrobial resistance.
World Health Assembly Day 1: outgoing Director-General Chan says “reducing inequalities” should guide future health work 23-05-2017
Some 3500 delegates from WHO’s 194 Member States – including a large proportion of the world’s health ministers – are attending the Seventieth World Health Assembly, which ends on 31 May. They are debating ways to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on building better systems for health.
New WHO study on health and well-being of Europe’s youth reveals that obesity continues to rise 17-05-2017
A new WHO report, launched today at the European Congress on Obesity in Portugal, reveals that the number of obese adolescents is continuing to rise in many countries across the WHO European Region.
Georgia takes a historic step in tobacco control 16-05-2017
In early May, the Georgian Parliament voted for strong new legislation on tobacco control with an overwhelming majority of 76 to 2. The third reading will take place later in May, but is only a formality. The adoption of the new law is a result of the work over several years of national and international partners, including the WHO Regional Office for Europe.
Improving the role of primary health care in early detection and management of noncommunicable diseases in Albania 15-05-2017
In 2015, aiming to improve the population’s access to preventive services offered by primary health care (PHC), the government of Albania launched a preventive check-up programme. As a result of this programme, all individuals aged 35–70 years can now get free annual check-ups. To facilitate this, the government has provided special training to nurses to provide these check-ups, which include routine bloodwork and patient interviews to screen for depression and noncommunicable disease (NCD) risk factors.
Sixth Meeting of the European Union Physical Activity Focal Points Network 10-05-2017
The European network for the promotion of health-enhancing physical activity convened for its sixth meeting in Toledo, Spain, on the 20–21 April 2017. Participants included representatives from the WHO Regional Office for Europe; the Sport Unit of the Directorate-General for Education and Culture (DG EAC), representing the European Commission; and the national physical activity focal points representing 22 Member States of the WHO European Region, as well as a group of relevant experts.
Dr João Breda receives the prestigious Gerlev Award 2017 10-05-2017
On 6 May 2017 Dr João Breda, Head of the WHO European Office for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases and Programme Manager for Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity at the WHO Regional Office for Europe, was awarded the Gerlev Award 2017 in recognition of his work in encouraging WHO Member States to adopt the Physical activity strategy for the WHO European Region 2016–2025.
Agreement signed for new WHO Office for Humanitarian and Health Emergencies Preparedness 09-05-2017
A host agreement to establish a new WHO Office for Humanitarian and Health Emergencies Preparedness in Istanbul, Turkey, was co-signed by Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe and Professor Recep Akdağ, Minister of Health of Turkey, on 2 May 2017 in Ankara.
First train-the-trainer session in alcohol screening and brief interventions delivered in Uzbekistan 08-05-2017
During the last six months, the WHO Regional Office for Europe together with consultants has been developing a train-the-trainer toolkit for alcohol screening and brief interventions (SBI) in primary health care settings. SBI includes the use of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) to assess patients’ level of alcohol consumption, followed by provision of a brief intervention to encourage behaviour change.
Saving lives, fighting noncommunicable diseases in Europe: contribution of Russian experts 08-05-2017
On 25 April 2017, the WHO European Office for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCD Office) and the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation hosted a meeting in Moscow: “Saving lives, fighting NCDs in Europe: contribution of Russian experts”. During the conference, experts from the country’s leading scientific institutions presented the work they have done within the context of the NCD Office throughout the Region, in particular in eastern European and central Asian countries.
Further commitment of south-eastern Europe countries to noncommunicable disease prevention and control voiced in Chisinau, Republic of Moldova 27-04-2017
A pre-forum meeting on the prevention and control of noncommunicable disease (NCD) was held on 2 April 2017, in Chisinau, Republic of Moldova, in advance of the fourth South-eastern Europe Health Ministerial Forum. The Forum, which took place on 3–4 April, focused on bringing health ministers together to discuss pathways to closer partnership, under the theme ‘Health, well-being and prosperity in south-eastern Europe by 2030 in the context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development’.
Newly independent states: Potential health impact of strong tobacco control policies 25-04-2017
WHO has developed a series of fact sheets for the 11 newly independent states (NIS). The fact sheets clearly demonstrate the positive health impact of strong tobacco control policies consistent with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
Promoting sports, physical activity and healthy diets in Turkmenistan in preparation for the 5th Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games 24-04-2017
The conference “Asian Games 2017: Sports, Nutrition and Physical Activity – Promoting a Healthy Lifestyle” took place on 6 April 2017 in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. Representatives from the United Nations Children’s Fund, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the United Nations Population Fund, WHO and other international and national participants discussed the role of sports and high profile sporting events such as the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in promoting healthy diets, physical activity and gender equality. They also focused on the benefits of sports for health.
Inspiration tour to North Karelia: 45 successful years of reducing coronary heart disease mortality the community way 21-04-2017
In 1972, Finland had the highest rate of coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality in the world, and the region of North Karelia in eastern Finland had the highest rate in the country. To address this issue, the region initiated what is known as the North Karelia Project, a far-reaching, community-based intervention that aims to reduce CHD mortality by encouraging healthier habits and cutting down on risk factors such as high cholesterol intake and smoking.
Tackling mild depression: “iCBT was perfect for me.” 04-04-2017
Telepsychiatry, also known as eMental health, is being used increasingly widely, especially in the form of internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT). After an initial assessment to determine a patient’s suitability for iCBT, a doctor prescribes the online course, which is done segment by segment. The patient’s progress is monitored by a mental health professional who can be contacted at any time.
Examples of investing in health from the South-eastern Europe Health Network 03-04-2017
The 9 countries of the South-eastern Europe Health Network (SEEHN) share a vision of promoting health as an integral part of economic development. In addition to participating in intercountry initiatives, each country is investing in health and generating results that inform other network members. On 3–4 April 2017, the 4th South-eastern Europe Health Ministerial Forum takes place in the Republic of Moldova.
Preparation meeting for the 3rd Moscow NCD training course 28-03-2017
On 22 March 2017 in Moscow, Russian Federation, WHO held a meeting with experts from the WHO Collaborating Centre on Training and Education of Health Policy-makers in Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases of the Higher School of Health Administration, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University.
New report highlights key considerations for the use of law to prevent noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in the Region 24-03-2017
A new report entitled “Key considerations for the use of law to prevent noncommunicable diseases in the WHO European Region” captures the discussions from the training and provides general reflections on the use of law to prevent NCDs in the Region. It acts as a primer to demonstrate that NCD risk factors can be addressed though law.
Armenia hosts round-table on prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases 22-03-2017
In Armenia, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) account for 92% of deaths, with cardiovascular diseases as the main killer (54%), followed by cancers (22%). Moreover, NCD-related causes account for 77% of premature mortality in the country. With the adoption of the Strategic Programme for the Prevention and Control of NCDs for the years 2016 – 2020, and the related Action Plan, the Government of Armenia is making significant efforts to address this leading cause of premature death and avoidable disability.
Minister of Health of Armenia visits WHO/Europe 20-03-2017
Mr Levon Altunyan, Minister of Health of Armenia, met Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, and senior management during a visit to WHO/Europe in Copenhagen, Denmark, on 10 March 2017.
Regional Director outlines links between WHO/Europe’s work to address NCDs and JA-CHRODIS 07-03-2017
Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, addressed over 200 participants at the final conference of the European Union (EU) Joint Action on Chronic Diseases and Promoting Healthy Ageing across the Life-Cycle (JA-CHRODIS) on 28 February 2017.
Regional consultation on alcohol and health 2016 02-01-2017
The WHO Regional Office for Europe organized a regional consultation on alcohol and health on 24 November 2016, in conjunction with the 7th European Alcohol Policy Conference in Ljubljana, Slovenia. The meeting focused on alcohol and pregnancy, and on trends in consumption and alcohol-attributable harm – themes of recent WHO/Europe publications.
Strengthening NCD planning in Albania 21-12-2016
In spring 2016, coordinators in Albania organized a working meeting to strengthen noncommunicable disease (NCD) planning in relation to the Government of Albania–United Nations Programme of Cooperation 2012–2016 and the country’s integrated, multisectoral NCD strategy. The objectives of the meeting were to discuss the current draft of the Programme and to collaborate with the NCD working group on the strategy and action plan.
WHO supports Tajikistan with development of implementation plan to tackle noncommunicable diseases 16-12-2016
On 19–21 September 2016 WHO experts on NCDs held a number of meetings in Tajikistan to support the country’s NCD working group with development of the long-term implementation plan for prevention and control of NCDs for 2017–2023.
Improving cancer registries in CIS countries – Kyrgyzstan hosts a Basic Cancer Registration Course co-organized by WHO/Europe and WHO International Agency for Research on Cancer 15-12-2016
Population-based cancer registries are needed for quantifying the burden of cancer and assessing national prevention and control programmes. Well trained cancer registry staff play a crucial role in ensuring good-quality data and adequate data analysis, interpretation and dissemination. WHO/Europe and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) with its Global Initiative for Cancer Registry Development programme have collaborated to develop and improve capacity for cancer registration in the WHO European Region, particularly in countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).
Russian school-aged children report high degree of life satisfaction 14-12-2016
The latest international Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) report, which presents data from the 2013/2014 survey, shows that 82% of Russian adolescents report high rates of life satisfaction. This matches international trends and shows that differences in reported life satisfaction between adolescents in countries in western and eastern Europe have narrowed. Adolescents report significant increases in life satisfaction in Croatia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Ukraine, as well as the Russian Federation, although figures have stabilized since the last study in 2009/2010.
Health system challenges and opportunities to improve noncommunicable disease outcomes in Serbia 28-11-2016
As part of a WHO/Europe initiative on health system strengthening to improve outcomes of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), a five-member WHO expert team visited Belgrade for a joint mission during 14–18 November 2016.
Belarus started country-wide STEPS survey on major noncommunicable diseases 18-11-2016
On 3-7 October 2016 the Belarusian Republican Scientific and Practical Center for Medical Technologies, Informatization, Administration and Management of Health (RSPC MT), in collaboration with WHO, organized a training course for STEPS interviewers and regional coordinators in Minsk, Belarus. STEPS (STEPwise approach to surveillance) survey is a WHO recommended representative study on risk factors of major noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
Developing training for screening and brief intervention regarding alcohol consumption in the Russian Federation 15-11-2016
Representatives from WHO Regional Office for Europe, international consultants, leading Russian experts in the field of narcology, addiction and preventionand practicing physicians from hospitals in the Moscow oblast, participated in a meeting on 17–18 October 2016 to develop training for screening and brief intervention for harmful alcohol consumption within primary health care settings.
Strengthening national tobacco cessation and treatment systems 08-11-2016
On 17-21 October 2016 policy-makers from 12 newly independent states (NIS) participated in a tobacco cessation workshop in Moscow to improve their skills in strengthening national tobacco cessation and treatment systems in accordance with the Guidelines for implementation of Article 14 of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC).
New WHO/Europe report calls for urgent action to protect children from digital marketing of food 04-11-2016
For the first time, researchers and health experts have undertaken a comprehensive analysis of the concerning situation in the WHO European Region of digital marketing to children of foods high in fats, salt and sugars. The findings are published in a new report from the WHO Regional Office for Europe, Tackling food marketing to children in a digital world: trans-disciplinary perspectives, which calls for immediate action by policy-makers to recognize and address the growing issue of marketing targeted to children via digital media.
Noncommunicable diseases Action Plan in Republic of Moldova – evaluation framework 31-10-2016
On 12-13 October a team of WHO experts met in the Republic of Moldova to evaluate the national Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) Action Plan. This event is part of the Support to Confidence Building Measures Programme, funded by the European Union and coordinated by WHO, under technical assistance and capacity building activities in the health sector.
Salt and trans-fats assessed in Kyrgyz Republic with WHO support 26-10-2016
Dietary behaviors play an important role for the development of major NCDs. Better knowing the nutritional composition of what we eat is crucial in order to improve food and nutrition landscape and the food behavior in countries of the WHO European Region.
Rollout of the Essential training for primary health care workers on the integrated management of hypertension and diabetes in Ukraine 25-10-2016
The first training of trainers for the Essential training for primary health care workers on the integrated management of hypertension and diabetes took place in Kyiv, Ukraine on 17-19 October, 2016 followed by the first cascade trainings for one hundred primary health care (PHC) doctors and nurses on October 20-21.
Cities as entry points in prevention of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) 10-10-2016
With NCDs accounting for more than 80% of the total deaths in the Baltic Sea Region, the successful experiences of tackling NCDs in three cities of the region provided valuable learning at the 19th European Health Forum Gastein on Wednesday, 28 September 2016.
World Mental Health Day – focus on depression 10-10-2016
This year, World Mental Health Day will also mark the launch of WHO’s campaign for World Health Day 2017, the theme of which is “Depression: let’s talk”. Although depression is treatable, about 50% of cases of major depression still go untreated. The high personal, social and economic costs of depression underscore the importance of overcoming this challenge.
Piloting an integrated NCD approach in Uzbekistan 05-10-2016
In 2016, Kashkadarya and Fergana regions in Uzbekistan endorsed regional noncommunicable disease (NCD) action plans for 2016–2017.
New publication - The main indicators of the WHO Global Monitoring Framework (GMF) on Noncommunicable Diseases 2016 04-10-2016
We are pleased to present The main indicators of the WHO Global Monitoring Framework (GMF) on Noncommunicable Diseases 2016, which exemplifies the joint effort of WHO and its Member States to offer recently available, comparable and policy-relevant NCD information.
Day 4 highlights: countries commit to strengthening the use of evidence and research in policy-making 15-09-2016
On the final day of the 66th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, Member States adopted a European action plan to strengthen the use of evidence, information and research for policy-making. They also approved an action plan for the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases, which complements global plans and builds on the previous regional strategy.
WHO governing body for the European Region convenes with eight strategic proposals on the agenda 08-09-2016
At the 66th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, to be held in Copenhagen from 12 to 15 September, representatives from the 53 countries in the WHO European Region will debate a set of innovative action plans that affect public health. The plans call for accelerated action and stronger political commitment on refugee and migrant health, women’s health, sexual and reproductive health, noncommunicable diseases, HIV/AIDS, viral hepatitis, integrated health services and the use of data in public health.
FEEDCities project – studying urban food environments 06-09-2016
FEEDCities is an ongoing multicountry study, which describes the urban food environments of cities in central Asia, the Caucasus and south-eastern Europe.
WHO Europe launches new action plan for noncommunicable diseases, appeals for urgent joint policy action to achieve global goals and targets 06-09-2016
The WHO European Region has made progress in key areas of noncommunicable disease (NCD) control: death rates from cardiovascular disease (CVD) continue to decline, the clear downward trend in smoking continues, and alcohol intake is steadily decreasing. However, this overall European picture masks significant differences within and between countries and population groups; WHO/Europe estimates that the Region will fall short of the global goals of reducing tobacco use and physical inactivity and simply fail to halt the rise in obesity unless action is accelerated.
Strengthening primary care to tackle noncommunicable diseases in Denmark 30-08-2016
Ageing populations, increased chronicity and multimorbidities challenge health services to continuously evolve and adapt. Today 80% of the disease burden is due largely to preventable noncommunicable diseases in the WHO European Region, while the average of preventable hospitalizations for diseases such as hypertension and diabetes has reached 73% in some countries. These changes place new demands on primary care in terms of engaging patients, designing comprehensive flow of care, organizing providers in multidisciplinary teams to secure qualifications and competencies, and aligning incentives while ensuring access to high-quality health and social services.
WHO/Europe steps up efforts to strengthen capacity in NCD prevention and control in central Asia and eastern Europe 17-08-2016
From 18 to 23 April 2016, the Higher School of Health Administration of the I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University hosted the second Moscow training course on the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in the countries of central Asia and eastern Europe.
Increasing information on noncommunicable disease risk factors in the Region 16-08-2016
In general, noncommunicable disease (NCD) mortality and morbidity data can be obtained from vital registration systems in WHO European Member States. However, information on risk factors is less frequently available, prompting for alternative data sources to provide this information.
Intersectoral high-level dialogue in Belarus focuses on increasing efficiency and effectiveness of primary care services for noncommunicable diseases 26-07-2016
A high-level policy dialogue was held on 12 July 2016 in Minsk, Belarus, to discuss the main obstacles to and the optimal strategies for increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of primary health care services in addressing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
Minister of Health of Poland presents National Health Programme during visit to WHO/Europe 07-07-2016
Dr Konstanty Radziwiłł, Minister of Health of Poland, visited the WHO Regional Office for Europe for the first time on 4 July 2016 to meet senior staff and discuss further cooperation.
Building capacity to use data for monitoring NCD-related hospitalizations and strategic purchasing in Kyrgyzstan 07-07-2016
On 27 June 2016, a workshop on building capacity and using data to monitor the hospitalization rates of patients with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) was held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. About 60 participants attended including representatives of the Mandatory Health Insurance Fund (MHIF), the Ministry of Health, regional and tertiary-level hospitals, and the Health Policy Analysis Center (HPAC) and experts on NCDs.
Further actions to prevent NCDs in Tiraspol 29-06-2016
During 20–22 June 2016, a meeting was organized to develop a set of priority actions on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in Transnistria region of the Republic of Moldova. The meeting took place in Chisinau with the support of WHO/Europe and international experts.
New report calls for improved maternal nutrition to decrease children’s long-term risk of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and obesity 29-06-2016
The nutritional well-being of pregnant women affects not only their health and their fetuses' development but also children's long-term risk of developing NCDs or obesity, according to WHO/Europe's new report, "Good maternal nutrition. The best start in life".
Strengthening national capacities on screening programmes for early detection of alcohol abuse 23-06-2016
On 23–24 May 2016, WHO/Europe, the WHO Country Office in the Republic of Moldova and the Ministry of Health organized a training-of-trainers workshop on screening programmes for early detection of alcohol abuse.
11 countries convene in Moscow to discuss use of law for prevention of NCDs 10-06-2016
WHO considers use of law as an important policy tool for the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Notably, the introduction of appropriate legislation is central to achieving the vision of a tobacco-free Europe, reducing the harmful use of alcohol and promoting healthy diets – three of the leading modifiable risk factors for NCDs.
Roundtable on NCDs in the Russian State Duma 01-06-2016
On 12 May 2016, the Russian State Duma Healthcare Committee, in cooperation with the Ministry of Health, organized a roundtable on the legislative aspects of fighting noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and public health in the Russian Federation.
Norway announces decision to send bill on plain packaging to Parliament 31-05-2016
On World No Tobacco Day, the Norwegian Minister of Health and Care Services, Bent Høie, has announced Norway's decision to follow Australia's lead in introducing plain packaging of tobacco products.
Workshop on implementation of the WHO package of essential noncommunicable disease interventions (WHO PEN) for primary health care 25-05-2016
On 17–19 May 2016 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, teams from the European PEN pioneer countries met with countries from eastern Europe and central Asia with a similar interest in implementing essential noncommunicable disease interventions for primary health care.
The National Meeting of Italian Healthy Cities Network focuses on migration health 23-05-2016
Palermo, in the region of Sicily, between 12 and 13 May 2016, hosted the 14th National Meeting of the Italian Healthy Cities Network, which in 2016 focused on migration health. The Meeting emphasized that to be a healthy city means, first of all, to reduce inequalities among people including unequal access to health care.
12th Flagship Course on Health Systems Strengthening: Focus on noncommunicable diseases 20-05-2016
The 12th annual Flagship Course on Health Systems Strengthening took place on 9–13 May, 2016 in Barcelona, Spain. The course focused on the health systems' response to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), with a combination of theoretical learning and practical applications through several country cases. It was designed and delivered by WHO/Europe through the WHO Barcelona Office for Health Systems Strengthening.
European countries gather in Ashgabat to assess progress in tobacco control 18-05-2016
The first anniversary of the project "Implementation of the Ashgabat Declaration: towards a tobacco-free European Region" was marked at a two-day European regional meeting in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan on 28–29 April 2016. The meeting focused on sharing the latest developments in tobacco control in European countries and discussing the way forward to reach the global voluntary target in tobacco use by 2025.
Turkey accelerates its whole-of-government and whole-of-society response to noncommunicable diseases 11-05-2016
The United Nations Interagency Task Force on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) was in Turkey from 20 to 22 April 2016 to support the Government of Turkey to meet its NCD-related Sustainable Development Goal targets. These targets are included in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and in national development plans and policies.
Turkey: strengthening primary health care for better noncommunicable disease outcomes 11-05-2016
An interdisciplinary team visited Turkey from 18 to 22 April 2016 to follow up on the country's progress in scaling up core noncommunicable disease (NCD) services in primary health care. The focus was on strengthening the model of care, addressing human resource issues, introducing performance management and reviewing incentives.
WHO European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative training in Montenegro 05-05-2016
On 14–15 April 2016, WHO in cooperation with the Ministry of Health of Montenegro held training in Podgorica for interviewers who would be involved in conducting the WHO European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI).
Turkey hosts an assessment meeting on nutrition and physical activity 05-05-2016
A team of international experts in nutrition and physical activity joined WHO staff in Ankara, Turkey from 25 to 29 April 2016. The purpose of the meeting was to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the Turkish National Healthy Nutrition and Active Life Programme, following an invitation from the Turkish Ministry of Health.
“City of Health” established to mark World Health Day in the Republic of Moldova 05-05-2016
On 9 April 2016, the "City of Health" was established in downtown Chisinau as a temporary "location" on the capital's map, dedicated to marking World Health Day and its main topic – diabetes – in the Republic of Moldova.
Uzbekistan spreads WHO global call to “Beat diabetes” on World Health Day 02-05-2016
The WHO Country Office, in cooperation with the Ministry of Health of Uzbekistan, held a joint press conference to mark World Health Day 2016. The main aim of this media event was to raise awareness about the disease, with which more than 60 million people in the European Region live, and to highlight the most effective ways to prevent, diagnose and treat it.
Despite progress, no European country on track to meet salt reduction goal 02-05-2016
Food and health experts from across Europe met in Lisbon, Portugal on 20–22 April 2016 to discuss strategies to reduce the harmful levels of salt in food.
Collaborating to raise awareness about diabetes in Bulgaria 29-04-2016
To mark World Health Day 2016 and to raise awareness about the problem of diabetes in Bulgaria, the WHO Country Office planned and implemented activities in collaboration with the Bulgarian Diabetes Association.
Overview of World Health Day events in Croatia 29-04-2016
A large number of events on the theme "Beat diabetes" took place in Croatia to mark World Health Day 2016.
New initiatives for children’s health showcased in Latvia on World Health Day 29-04-2016
To mark World Health Day 2016, the Ministry of Health of Latvia and the WHO Country Office organized a joint press conference, held on the Ministry premises and with participation from the Minister of Health, Dr Guntis Belevics.
Spreading the message of World Health Day 2016 in Kyrgyzstan 29-04-2016
The Ministry of Health of Kyrgyzstan organized a number of events, from a press conference to a flash mob, focused on World health Day 2016 and the theme "Beat diabetes".
Press conference on World Health Day 2016 highlights Belarus' achievements in diabetes care 29-04-2016
A press conference dedicated to World Health Day 2016, on the theme of "Beat diabetes", was held on 5 April at the National Press House in Minsk, Belarus.
Data validation of first study on harmful use of alcohol and tobacco in Tiraspol 29-04-2016
During a roundtable held in Tiraspol on 25–26 February 2016, representatives of central health authorities and specialists discussed the preliminary results of the first knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) study regarding the harmful use of alcohol and tobacco in Transnistria region of the Republic of Moldova.
On World Health Day 2016, Czech Republic focuses on diabetes and prevention 29-04-2016
During the World Health Day campaign in the Czech Republic, the WHO Country Office presented the 2016 slogan "Be active – Eat healthy – Follow medical advice – Beat diabetes". The slogan illustrates the key areas where the country should focus political efforts to decrease the risk of diabetes among the population.
On World Health Day 2016, Slovakia raises awareness about diabetes and provides health checks 27-04-2016
To mark World Health Day 2016 and to spread the word about the problem of diabetes in Slovakia, the WHO Country Office created a press release and participated in media events.
Cyprus approves a new diabetes strategic plan 26-04-2016
On 6 April 2016 – the day before World Health Day, which in 2016 focuses on diabetes – the Council of Ministers of Cyprus approved the newly developed diabetes strategic plan. All related stakeholders, such as representatives of the International Diabetes Federation, patients' organizations, universities, scientific societies and ministerial departments, worked synergistically in developing the plan, which was coordinated by the Ministry of Health.
Governments call on WHO and partners to support achievement of global road safety targets 26-04-2016
On 15 April 2016, the UN General Assembly and its Member States adopted a resolution to improve global road safety. The resolution, which was tabled by the Government of the Russian Federation, was co-sponsored by 55 governments.
Bosnia and Herzegovina marks World Health Day 2016 with a variety of activities 25-04-2016
Throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina, many activities and events were held to promote World Health Day messages on eating healthily, being active and following medical advice. These included: blood pressure monitoring and blood testing, distributing apples, health promotion and education events, badminton games and many more.
European action networks on salt and on reducing marketing pressure on children meet in Lisbon, Portugal 20-04-2016
The Directorate-General of Health of Portugal is the host of back-to-back meetings of the European Salt Action Network and the European Action Network for Reducing Marketing Pressure on Children in Lisbon on 20–22 April 2016.
Turkey observes World Health Day with simultaneous events across the country 20-04-2016
Turkey marked World Health Day 2016 with simultaneous awareness and knowledge-raising events across the country.
Media workshop – Tobacco control more than a health issue 19-04-2016
At a two-day media workshop in Moscow, Russian Federation, journalists and communication officers from the 11 newly independent states were introduced to tobacco as much more than a health issue.
Hungary marks World Health Day with joint press conference on diabetes 18-04-2016
On 7 April 2016, Hungary celebrated World Health Day by holding a press conference focused on this year's theme of diabetes.
Marking World Health Day 2016 in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 12-04-2016
World Health Day (WHD) 2016 was celebrated with a series of events in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, organized by the WHO Country Office in cooperation with relevant institutions, particularly the Ministry of Health, the Institute for Occupational Health and the Macedonian Medical Society.
Turkey develops multistakeholder national action plan for prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases 05-04-2016
On 1 April 2016, representatives of the Government of Turkey and other stakeholders met with WHO to review Turkey's draft multistakeholder action plan for the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
Writing and reporting health news: training for journalists from Tiraspol 05-04-2016
On 24–25 March 2016, the WHO Country Office in the Republic of Moldova and a team of international media experts from Bulgaria and the United Kingdom led a 2-day training on writing and reporting health news for journalists from Tiraspol.
Prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases in Transnistria region: focus on tobacco 01-04-2016
During 22–23 March 2016, the WHO Country Office in the Republic of Moldova, in partnership with representatives of central authorities and health sector specialists in Tiraspol, organized intersectoral working group meetings and roundtable discussions on the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases.
UN Interagency Task Force on NCDs works with Kyrgyzstan to reduce burden of noncommunicable diseases 21-03-2016
The United Nations Interagency Task Force on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) carried out a mission to Kyrgyzstan from 14 to 17 March 2016 to support the Government of Kyrgyzstan.
Informing policy for young people’s health 15-03-2016
The WHO Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study has influenced policy and legislation across the WHO European Region for over 30 years. The latest update of the study, based on a survey of over 200 000 young people in 42 countries, has been published.
Minister of Health of the Russian Federation signs agreement with WHO/Europe 09-03-2016
WHO Regional Director for Europe, Zsuzsanna Jakab, and the Minister of Health of the Russian Federation, Veronika Skvortsova, signed a biennial collaborative agreement for 2016–2017 in Moscow on 29 February 2016.
The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia makes significant progress implementing Health 2020 01-03-2016
On 17 February 2016, the WHO Country Office in Skopje hosted an event to present the results achieved by the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia in implementing in 2014–2015 Health 2020, the WHO European framework for health and well-being.
Roundtable discussions on diabetes management system in Republic of Moldova 22-02-2016
The results of an end-term evaluation of the National Diabetes Programme 2011–2015 and the diabetes management system of the Republic of Moldova were the main topics at a roundtable that took place on 10 February 2016 in Chisinau.
Romania to become a smoke-free country 10-02-2016
The Romanian Parliament passed the law on smoke-free public places in December 2015. This decision was challenged but the Constitutional Court has now ruled that the law banning smoking in indoor public places, including bars and restaurants, is constitutional and will be implemented in the next months.
Preventing cancer - The European code against cancer 04-02-2016
Cancer incidence is rising in the WHO European Region. A new edition of the European code against cancer lists 12 ways of helping people to adopt healthier lifestyles and of boosting cancer prevention across Europe. 4 February is World Cancer Day.
Movies hook young people on tobacco 01-02-2016
There is evidence of a clear relationship between smoking in films and smoking initiation among young people, according to the new WHO Smoke-free Movies Report – From evidence to action, the third edition since its launch in 2009.
Food marketing, children’s rights and Professor Cyrus Cooper on the life-course approach in the latest Public Health Panorama 28-01-2016
Addressing the challenge of protecting children from the harmful effects of food marketing and assessing children's rights in health care in Uzbekistan are just two of health issues covered in the latest edition of Public Health Panorama (Volume 1, issue 3), now published.
Country workshop in Poland on policies to restrict the marketing of food and non-alcoholic beverages to children 27-01-2016
WHO/Europe facilitated a workshop on restricting food marketing to children on 23–25 November 2015 in Warsaw, Poland.
Global recommendations to stop childhood obesity launched 25-01-2016
Childhood obesity is an important health challenge for almost all countries in the European Region. The statistics are disturbing, with rising rates of overweight and obesity reported in many European countries in recent years. Where trends have recently started to flatten out, they do so at very high rates with a strong social gradient.
Collaboration on refugee and migrant health 21-01-2016
Countries in the WHO European Region have agreed to prepare a common framework for coordinated collaboration and action on refugee and migrant health, based on solidarity and mutual assistance and in the spirit of the 2030 Sustainable Development agenda, whereby "no one should be left behind".
Assessment of Turkey’s progress in achieving better noncommunicable disease outcomes 21-01-2016
On 14–18 December 2015, the WHO Country Office in Turkey organized a series of meetings, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, to review and document the country's progress in increasing the role of family medicine in detecting and managing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
Better wheelchair service provision in Tajikistan 07-01-2016
Tajikistan's Ministry of Health and Social Protection, in cooperation with the WHO disability rehabilitation team and Mobility India, and with financial support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), conducted basic training in wheelchair services in December 2015. 42 participants from Tajikistan and Kazakhstan learnt how to correctly fit, modify and adapt wheelchairs for various users; to service wheelchairs; and to train users in using their new chairs.
How can we best protect non-smokers from exposure to tobacco smoke? 05-01-2016
There is no safe level of exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke, and comprehensive smoke-free laws are the only effective means of eliminating the risks associated with smoking. The evidence brief 'How can we best protect non-smokers from exposure to tobacco smoke?' evaluates the impact of smoke-free policies in the European Region.
Experts meet in Lisbon to assess evidence and review progress on nutrition labelling 16-12-2015
Nutrition labelling can guide consumer food selection and nudge individuals towards healthier choices. In particular, front-of-pack labelling may also stimulate industry to pursue favorable compositional changes to the food supply, notably through food reformulation.
Public health and sustainable development on the agenda of the National Health Forum 01-12-2015
The adaptation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to the Moldovan national context, financial protection in health care, effective response to noncommunicable diseases, and hospital and public health reforms were the major topics on the agenda of the fourth National Health Forum that took place on 26–27 November 2015 in Chisinau, Republic of Moldova.
WHO conference on cardiovascular diseases addresses difference in life expectancy between eastern and western Europe 30-11-2015
Cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes, comprise almost half of all deaths in the WHO European Region, and contribute significantly to the differences in life expectancy between eastern and western Europe. People born in eastern Europe are almost 5 times more likely to die young due to a heart attack or stroke than those born in western Europe.
Minister of Health of Latvia signs agreement with WHO/Europe 30-11-2015
Dr Guntis Belevics, Minister of Health of Latvia, and Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, signed a biennial collaborative agreement for 2016–2017 to continue Latvia's collaboration with WHO in line with the country's needs.
New WHO report on tobacco taxation policy in Kyrgyzstan 26-11-2015
A new WHO report shows how tobacco taxation policy impacts on tobacco consumption and revenues in Kyrgyzstan.
“Europe is Europe because of migration”: highlights from day 2 of the high-level conference on refugee and migrant health 24-11-2015
Recapping discussions from the first day, Dr Santino Severoni noted that delegates recognized that the current massive refugee, asylum seeker and other migrant influx in Europe is an urgent public health concern for all Member States in the Region.
Albania, host of SEEHN meeting, scales up implementation of WHO FCTC with smoke-free public places 24-11-2015
Since January 2014, Albania has made noticeable progress in implementing smoke-free public places. Thus, Albania was chosen to host in Tirana on 18–20 November 2015 a subregional meeting on scaling up implementation of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) in South-eastern Europe Health Network (SEEHN) countries. "One of the reasons we decided to hold this meeting in Albania is the strong commitment of the Minister of Health to attain a smoke-free Albania. WHO has gathered representatives from 11 countries to see the progress in Albania, and learn from their experience," said Kristina Mauer-Stender, Programme Manager, Tobacco Control at WHO/Europe.
“We cannot turn away our eyes”: highlights from day 1 of the high-level conference on refugee and migrant health 24-11-2015
Opening the meeting, Beatrice Lorenzin, Minister of Health of Italy read a short statement from His Holiness Pope Francis welcoming those attending the Conference, calling on them to bring wisdom, strength and peace to the discussions.
Addressing the largest single cause of preventable deaths in Europe – cardiovascular disease 19-11-2015
People born in eastern Europe are almost five times more likely to die young due to a heart attack or stroke than those born in western Europe. Since 2000, this disparity in risk of premature death has significantly increased from a fourfold difference at the beginning of the century to the current nearly fivefold difference. These early and preventable deaths due to cardiovascular diseases are the greatest single contributor to the lower life expectancy in the east of Europe compared to the west.
Physical inactivity and diabetes 12-11-2015
Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include overweight or obesity, an unhealthy diet and physical inactivity. Physical inactivity alone is estimated to cause 7% of the burden of type 2 diabetes in the European Region. 14 November is World Diabetes Day.
Draft final report of WHO Commission on Ending Childhood Obesity open for comment 10-11-2015
Representatives of more than 35 Member States of the WHO European Region met in Malta on 29 and 30 November 2015 for the European Consultation of the WHO Commission on Ending Childhood Obesity. The consultation provided an opportunity for representatives to comment on the draft final report of the Commission.
WHO marks local launch of project to strengthen the noncommunicable disease response in Ukraine 03-11-2015
WHO launched the noncommunicable disease (NCD) prevention and health promotion project at local level in Ukraine on 28 October 2015, with support from the Ukrainian Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education and Science. The Deputy Director of the Swiss Cooperation Office in Ukraine, Petra Widmer, and the Deputy Minister of Health of Ukraine, Ihor Perehinets, attended, with representatives of the local authority. The scope of the project was presented.
Statement - The challenges of migration require migrant-sensitive health systems for today and for the future 29-10-2015
Statement by Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe
Turkey held follow-up meetings on 2013 country assessment on better noncommunicable disease outcomes 24-10-2015
On 12–14 October 2015, the WHO Country Office in Turkey organized a series of meetings of WHO experts in collaboration with the Ministry of Health to review and document the country's progress in noncommunicable disease (NCD) outcomes since 2013.
Day 2 of Life-course Conference: Minsk Declaration signed 23-10-2015
The different life stages were discussed throughout the day's proceedings, starting with early childhood and adolescence – a time to optimize growth and development – through the middle years - with timely interventions to maintain peak health – and finally on the implications of the life-course approach for policy-making. The Conference ended with the signing of the Minsk Declaration.
Day 1 of Life-course Conference: synergies between Health 2020 and sustainable development goals 21-10-2015
On the first day of the Conference, delegates from across the WHO European Region recognized that the importance of giving children the best start to life is scientifically based and should be reflected in policies. They also discussed the unique opportunity provided by the recently agreed sustainable development goals (SDGs) and by the Health 2020 policy framework for pursuing a life-course approach to health.
Engaging young people in their own care is key to improving adolescent health 08-10-2015
New Global Standards for quality health-care services for adolescents have been developed by WHO and UNAIDS to ensure better access to critical prevention and care services.
New Minister of Health of the Republic of Moldova visits WHO/Europe 07-10-2015
Mrs Ruxanda Glavan, newly appointed Minister of Health, visited WHO/Europe to meet Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, and senior management on 5 October 2015.
European health report 2015 published 23-09-2015
This flagship report shows that Europeans are living longer, but high levels of tobacco and alcohol consumption, combined with rising obesity, could mean that the life expectancy of future generations will fall. The report charts progress towards the targets set in Health 2020 and recommends that new kinds of evidence be examined to understand the complex relation between health, well-being and culture.
Roadmap signposts the way to a tobacco-free generation 22-09-2015
Achieving a tobacco-free new generation came a few steps closer as the 53 Member States of the WHO European Region endorsed a roadmap of action to strengthen implementation of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC).
Introductory meeting on STEPS survey carried out in Belarus 10-09-2015
On 24–25 August 2015 in Minsk, WHO/Europe, upon invitation of the Ministry of Health of Belarus, conducted an introductory meeting to plan a STEPwise approach to surveillance (STEPS) survey.
New approach to noncommunicable diseases in Transnistria region 07-07-2015
WHO/Europe and the WHO Country Office in the Republic of Moldova conducted on 1–2 July 2015 the first technical mission to Transnistria region and held a workshop whose aim was capacity building and planning support in noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and their risk factors.
Food marketing to children and salt reduction: focus of WHO/Europe action network meetings 30-06-2015
The Norwegian Directorate of Health, in collaboration with WHO/Europe, organized and chaired the 10th Meeting of the WHO European Action Network on reducing marketing pressure on children in Athens, Greece, on 15–16 June 2015.
Public Health Panorama – the WHO Regional Office for Europe’s new bilingual public health journal 30-06-2015
The WHO Regional Office for Europe has published the first issue of its new quarterly journal of public health. Public Health Panorama features good practice in policy and research in public health from across the European Region; it is published online and in print in both English and Russian.
Bi-regional workshop to build legal capacity and advance action on WHO recommendations on the marketing of food and non-alcoholic beverages to children 24-06-2015
WHO, in collaboration with the University of Liverpool (United Kingdom), organized a training course on legislative approaches to address food marketing to children on 10–13 June 2015 in Amman, Jordan.
European regional consultation of the WHO Commission on Ending Childhood Obesity 24-06-2015
WHO Director-General, Dr Margaret Chan, established the Commission on Ending Childhood Obesity with a mandate to advise WHO and governments on the effective strategies available to tackle childhood and adolescent obesity in different contexts around the world.
Global Adult Tobacco Survey results launched in Astana, Kazakhstan 12-06-2015
Results of a national Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) conducted in Kazakhstan in 2014 were presented on 29 May 2015.
Reducing alcohol and tobacco consumption in Uzbekistan – intersectoral roundtable meeting 12-06-2015
An intersectoral roundtable on the reduction of tobacco and alcohol consumption in Uzbekistan took place in Tashkent on 19 May 2015.
Improving maternal and child health: a priority for Bulgaria 10-06-2015
The mortality of children under 5 years of age is 2–2.5% higher in Bulgaria than in the rest of the European Region. Lowering this rate is a key priority for the Ministry of Health of Bulgaria, and 80% of investments by the Ministry in the past 6 months have been for maternal and child care; future public health financing will also focus on infant and maternal health.
Pictorial health warnings on tobacco products 19-05-2015
WHO/Europe’s new evidence brief reviews the effects on knowledge and behaviour of large pictorial warnings on the packaging of tobacco products. Contrary to tobacco companies’ claims, such warnings are quick and cheap to apply, and do not increase illicit trade, an issue in focus on World No Tobacco Day 2015.
New WHO Collaborating Centre on Noncommunicable Diseases Research, Prevention and Control 13-04-2015
Clalit Research Institute was recently designated as a WHO Collaborating Center on Noncommunicable Diseases Research, Prevention and Control. The inaugural ceremony took place in Tel Aviv on 10 March 2015, on the occasion of the WHO Technical Meeting on Real-life complexities in NCD prevention and control hosted by Clalit.
Memorandum of Understanding for Life-course Approach Conference in Minsk now signed 01-04-2015
V. Zharko, Minister of Health of the Republic of Belarus and Z. Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, signed the Memorandum of Understanding for the WHO European Ministerial Conference on Life-course Approach in the Context of Health 2020. The Conference will take place in Minsk on 21-22 October 2015, and will focus on how the latest evidence on influencing health across life stages can be applied by the health sector and the whole of government to improve health and well-being.
Using price policies to promote healthier diets 23-03-2015
Several countries in the WHO European Region have now introduced health-related taxes or subsidies on specific foods and/or nutrients to positively influence dietary intake and health outcomes. A new publication provides information on the use of price policies to promote healthy diets and summarizes recent policy developments from different parts of the Region.
How can innovative data-driven approaches help tackle NCDs? 23-03-2015
The technical meeting on 10 March 2015 in Tel Aviv, Israel, centred around real-life complexities in the prevention and control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs).
United Kingdom to introduce plain packaging on tobacco packs 20-03-2015
The United Kingdom will introduce plain packaging on tobacco packs after the members of both Houses of Parliament overwhelmingly approved this decision earlier this week. The law will come into effect in May 2016.
Slovakia focussing on multisectoral approach to fight noncommunicable diseases 26-02-2015
The Ministry of Health, the National Health Information Centre, and the WHO Country Office in Slovakia recently held a joint policy dialogue to discuss the planning and development of interventions to prevent control noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) through multisectoral collaboration.
WHO launches tool to help countries reduce marketing of foods with too much fat, sugar and salt to children 19-02-2015
Across the WHO European Region, children are still regularly exposed to marketing that promotes foods and drinks high in energy, saturated fats, trans fatty acids, free sugars or salt. Despite progress in some countries, government action to restrict such marketing remains less than optimal. One of the reasons for this is the challenge of identifying foods whose marketing should be restricted, whether on television, the Internet, billboards or any other channel. A first step in developing policies to restrict marketing to children is to establish the criteria that identify such foods and drinks. To meet this need, the WHO Regional Office for Europe has developed a nutrient profile model for countries to adapt and use to classify foods according to their nutritional composition. Policy-makers across the Region will be able to use this tool to determine whether a food product may not be marketed to children.
Informal consultation with stakeholders on the development of the European Physical Activity Strategy 05-02-2015
Following the Member States technical consultation with Member States in Zurich, Switzerland, on 31 January 2015 WHO organized an informal consultation meeting with stakeholders on the development of the strategy.
Poland considers policy options to promote healthy diets 27-01-2015
A conference on fiscal policy related to food rich in sugar, salt and fat was organized on 11 December 2014 in Warsaw, Poland by the Intersectoral Coordination Committee for National Health Programme and the Board for Diet, Physical Activity and Health. The aim was to present options and experiences from other countries and to consider the possibility of introducing such policy in Poland.
Multisectoral action to promote physical activity in Switzerland 22-01-2015
Although most people know that being physically active improves health dramatically, levels of physical activity are too low. The Swiss Federal Office of Public Health has focused on specific cooperative projects with other federal agencies in order to create opportunities to promote physical activity in urban and regional planning.
Countries urged to set national targets and implement proven interventions to prevent premature deaths from noncommunicable diseases 19-01-2015
Every year, 16 million people die prematurely – before the age of 70 – of heart and lung diseases, a stroke, cancer or diabetes, according to the “Global Status Report on noncommunicable diseases 2014”, released by WHO today. The report states that most of these deaths are preventable and, with an investment of only US$1-3 dollars per person per year, countries can dramatically reduce illness and death from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
Addressing inequities through responsive health services in Kazakhstan 18-01-2015
The Government of Kazakhstan approached WHO and other United Nations agencies to support the development of regional policies that are responsive to the population’s needs, with a primary health care approach that includes intersectoral actions. A multidisciplinary WHO team visited Mangystau on 10-17 December 2014 and, jointly with the local counterparts, developed an action plan based on a rapid assessment of health needs.
Most types of cancer not due to bad luck 14-01-2015
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), WHO’s specialized cancer agency, strongly disagrees with the conclusion of a scientific report on the causes of human cancer by Dr Cristian Tomasetti and Dr Bert Vogelstein, published in the journal “Science” on 2 January 2015 and widely reported in the mass media.
Malta launches food and nutrition policy and action plan 19-12-2014
Dietary factors are the single most important risk factors for the burden of disease in all 53 Member States in the WHO European Region. In Malta, levels of obesity among school-age children are a particular concern.
General practitioners implementing innovative measures to tackle NCDs in Croatia 18-12-2014
In Croatia, the probability of premature mortality from noncommunicable diseases is 18% and primarily affects males in their productive years. Noncommunicable diseases account for 90% of overall mortality. This has significant socioeconomic consequences and is a drain on the national economy. Status quo in the current levels of alcohol use, smoking, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity would result in an increased burden of noncommunicable diseases that would affect the sustainability of the health system.
Health economics on air pollution substantiate policies that save lives and the environment 10-12-2014
Recent WHO estimates confirmed that air pollution is the world’s largest single environmental health risk, attributable to 7 million premature deaths globally in 2012 as a result of the joint effects of outdoor and household air pollution, with 582 000 of those deaths occurring in the European region.
High cancer burden due to overweight and obesity in most European countries 28-11-2014
A new study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), WHO’s specialized cancer agency, shows that overweight and obesity are a major risk factor for cancer: responsible for an estimated 3.6% (481 000) of all new cancer cases globally in 2012. In most countries in the WHO European Region, the percentage of new cases that can be attributed to overweight and obesity is higher than this global rate.
WHO project to combat noncommunicable diseases with major grant from Russian Federation 26-11-2014
The WHO Regional Office for Europe will expand capacity in dealing with prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases through a major grant from the Russian Federation of 22 million USD over the next five years. The goal is to build capacity in the Region to combat avoidable NCDs through better data, more effective prevention and evidence-based disease management.
Assessment of barriers and opportunities to improve NCD outcomes in Estonia 13-11-2014
A week-long WHO/Europe assessment of Estonia’s response to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) conducted in September 2014 looked for ways in which the Government can reduce the burden of these diseases and further improve their treatment and management.
United Nations Development Group promotes Health 2020 in guidance note to country teams 10-11-2014
The strategies and priorities of WHO’s Health 2020 policy framework should be integrated into national development agendas, according to a recent Guidance Note from the United Nations Development Group (UNDG). The note, written to UN Country Teams (UNCT) in September 2014,also seeks to ensure that NCD prevention and control and efforts to address the Social Determinants of Health (SDH) are included.
New European code prescribes 12 ways to prevent cancer 14-10-2014
Avoiding tobacco, alcohol and excessive sun exposure; maintaining a healthy body weight; and being physically active are among 12 ways to prevent cancer prescribed by the new European Code Against Cancer. The Code also recommends participation in organized screening programmes for bowel, breast and cervical cancer.
Working for better noncommunicable disease outcomes in Turkey: challenges and opportunities for health systems 09-10-2014
A week long policy dialogue and training course is underway in Turkey, to take forward recommendations of a new WHO report assessing the health system response to NCD prevention and control. Turkey was one of the first countries to undertake an assessment of the health system capacity to respond to NCD, using the assessment guide developed by WHO Regional Office for Europe. The assessment was conducted in 2013 by WHO in partnership with the Ministry of Health in Turkey.
Snapshot from Across Europe: Successful Nutrition Policies 30-09-2014
Concerted and comprehensive action in the area of food and nutrition is recognised as a priority for the European region in order to tackle the burden of overweight, obesity and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and to eliminate pockets of undernutrition. The 64th Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe unanimously adopted the European Food and Nutrition Action Plan 2015-2020, which recommends a comprehensive package of policies to respond to this challenge.
New European Food and Nutrition Action Plan adopted 30-09-2014
On 18 September 2014 the 64th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe unanimously adopted the new European Food and Nutrition Action Plan 2015-2020. Health ministers and representatives from the 53 countries of the Region gave their overwhelming support to the Action Plan and the priority policies that it describes which address obesity, diet-related noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and all other forms of malnutrition.
Advocating health: Polish journalists visit WHO/Europe 30-09-2014
“We always try to get information from the best sources,” explained Agnieszka Zamencka, a journalist from the Kwadryga publishing house, who organized a visit to WHO/Europe by over 80 Polish journalists from the Journalists for Health Association on 29 September 2014.
Reducing salt consumption 26-09-2014
No Member State in the WHO European Region meets the recommended adult daily salt intake of less than 5 g/day. Finland and the United Kingdom have introduced effective salt reduction programmes, as part of efforts to reduce raised blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases.
Highlights of RC64 day 4 – Ebola emergency update, food and nutrition action plan adopted, and six European progress reports discussed 18-09-2014
On its final day, the 64th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC64) enthusiastically adopted the European Food and Nutrition Action Plan 2015–2020
Highlights of RC64 day 3 – Adoption of action plans on vaccines and prevention of child maltreatment 17-09-2014
Two far-reaching action plans – on vaccines and prevention of child maltreatment – were adopted, mapping the path for interventions in these areas until 2020.
Country cooperation strategy signed with Portugal 17-09-2014
The Ministry of Health of Portugal and WHO have signed a country cooperation strategy (CCS), setting the vision for creating synergy and alignment between WHO leadership priorities and Portuguese national health policies, strategies and plans for 2015–2020. The CCS is aligned with both Portugal’s national health plan and the WHO European policy framework Health 2020.
Highlights of day 1 – Focus on more equitable, sustainable health for Europe 15-09-2014
“Our aim will be better health for Europe, more equitable and sustainable,” said Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, in her address to representatives of all 53 Member States in the WHO European Region.
Physical activity must be promoted more in health care settings 01-09-2014
More attention is needed to the benefits that increasing physical activity in health care settings has for the prevention and management of health problems, especially in the case of chronic conditions. In the WHO European Region alone, one million deaths per year (about 10 % of the total) are estimated to be attributable to physical inactivity. Health care solutions include education reform and active workplace support for health care professionals; guided prescriptions of physical activity for patients, and the design of health care facilities to have both indoor and outdoor healing environments.
6% Less smokers in Russia since smoking ban entered into force 12-08-2014
According to the new opinion poll by the Russian Public Opinion Research Center, the number of smokers in Russia has dropped 6 percent since the country adopted a strong tobacco control legislation last year. The opinion poll shows that that the percentage of smokers has decreased from 41 to 35 percent in the past year.
United Nations task force on NCDs finds cause for concern and optimism in Belarus 01-08-2014
A Joint Mission of the United Nations Inter-Agency Task Force on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) visited Belarus for the first time on 14–18 July 2014. The mission made several recommendations for further strengthening of Government action, but also reported that by seizing this opportunity Belarus has the potential to become an exemplary case in multisectoral action for the prevention of NCDs in Eurasia.
Country profiles on noncommunicable diseases published 15-07-2014
WHO has published profiles on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) for all Member States, including the 53 countries in the WHO European Region. Where data are available, the profiles estimate for each country the current burden of and recent trends in NCD mortality, the prevalence of selected major risk factors and the national health system’s capacity to respond. They update the profiles produced in 2011.
Country assessment to improve noncommunicable diseases outcomes in Belarus 24-06-2014
An interdisciplinary team of experts visited Belarus from 28 May to 3 June 2014 to assess health system barriers that prevent core services related to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) from being delivered to the population as well as to identify opportunities to overcome them. During the mission, WHO staff and consultants worked closely with national experts on health systems governance and monitoring, public health services and service purchasing. The mission focussed specifically on cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Implementing the Health 2020 vision in the Nordic and Baltic countries: high-level meeting in Helsinki, Finland 16-06-2014
What policies reduce health inequities? Policy-makers and politicians will identify and share effective policies and interventions at a subregional policy dialogue organized by the WHO Regional Office for Europe and Finland’s Ministry of Social Affairs and Health on 16–17 June 2014.
Europeans deserve tougher policies to protect their health 06-06-2014
During a visit to Turkey on 4 June, the WHO Regional Director for Europe, Zsuzsanna Jakab, focused on tobacco, obesity and physical inactivity. A national tobacco-control event was held in Ankara for World No Tobacco Day and to launch the national tobacco-control programme and action plan for Turkey for 2014–2018. As part of the event, the Turkish Minister of Health, Mehmet Müezzinoğlu, presented an award to the Regional Director for WHO/Europe’s exemplary contribution to tobacco-control work in Turkey.
World Health Assembly, day 4: proposals on coordination of noncommunicable disease response 26-05-2014
The World Health Assembly approved proposals to improve global coordination of efforts to address noncommunicable diseases like diabetes, cancers, heart disease and stroke. It also approved a resolution to improve the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of viral hepatitis.
WHO and Russian Federation sign country cooperation strategy 20-05-2014
On 18 May 2014, the Russian Federation and WHO signed a country cooperation strategy, providing a medium-term vision for technical cooperation, to support the country’s national health policy, strategy, action plan and related efforts, in line with Health 2020. The strategy will guide cooperation until 2020.
New global report: depression predominant cause of illness and disability among adolescents 14-05-2014
The report reveals that depression is the predominant cause of illness and disability for both boys and girls aged 10 to 19 years, so it recommends key actions to strengthen the ways countries respond to adolescents’ physical and mental health needs.
New publication: European child health services and systems 14-05-2014
The recently published "European child health services and systems. Lessons without borders" takes a purposefully child-centric view, and aims to improve understanding of children's health services across Europe.
Alcohol consumption in Europe decreasing but still the highest in the world 12-05-2014
People in the WHO European Region drink almost twice the world average amount of alcohol, the latest WHO figures show. According to a new report, Global status report on alcohol and health 2014, consumption in Europe fell by 10%, from 12.2 L pure alcohol per capita in 2003–2005 to 10.9 L in 2008–2010. Nevertheless, Europe still has the highest alcohol consumption in the world. In response, some Member States are implementing effective policy measures identified by WHO, such as restricting access to retailed alcohol, raising taxes on alcohol and enforcing bans on alcohol advertising.
Health system assessment identifies steps to improve NCD outcomes in the Republic of Moldova 02-05-2014
The findings and policy recommendations of the country assessment ("Health system barriers and innovations for better NCD Outcomes") were discussed and validated at a policy dialogue meeting held 19-20 February 2014 in Chisinau.
Smoke-free: 2014 Men's World Ice Hockey Championships in Minsk 30-04-2014
The city of Minsk, Belarus, will be the host of the next Men's World Ice Hockey Championships on 9-25 May. The agreement to make the Championships smoke-free was achieved during the meeting of Mr Mikhail Myasnikovich, Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus with Ms Zsuzsanna Jakab, Regional Director, WHO Regional Office for Europe, in November 2013.
10 years of smoke-free Ireland 25-04-2014
10 years ago, on the 24th of March 2004, Ireland introduced a ban on smoking in all workplaces as the first country in the world.
Vienna Declaration on NCDs followup: 1st European strategy for physical activity 23-04-2014
The "Vienna Declaration on Nutrition and Noncommunicable Diseases in the Context of Health 2020" provided a strong mandate for developing a physical activity strategy for the WHO European Region. A working group started the development process of the strategy on 25 and 26 March 2014 at Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) in Erlangen, Germany.
Estonian First Lady becomes champion of health 18-03-2014
Visiting WHO/Europe on 27 February 2014, Mrs Evelin Ilves, spouse of the President of Estonia, accepted the invitation of Ms Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, to become the Champion of Health for Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) in the WHO European Region.
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD): European population-based action plan for early diagnosis 18-03-2014
Lack of support for people with vascular diseases, including peripheral arterial diseases (PAD), may expose them to dramatic health care costs due to acute, even fatal, cardiovascular events. In response to this WHO and Vascular Independent Research and Education European Organisation (VAS) have recently organized a joint session on “Burden and Equity in Vascular Diseases” (during the 10th European Angiology Days) to promote awareness and prevention of the condition.
WHO and the International Agency for Research on Cancer advise Belarus on tackling NCDs 27-02-2014
A WHO-led mission visited Belarus on 17–19 February 2014 to review and advise on developments related to control of noncommunicable diseases in the country.
Q&A – How can I drink alcohol safely? 10-02-2014
There is no safe level for drinking alcohol. The ideal situation is to not drink at all. Dr Lars Møller, Programme Manager, Alcohol and Illicit Drugs at WHO/Europe, dispels some misconceptions about the so-called safe level of drinking in a question and answer (Q&A) session.
Prevention is key to curb cancer burden, says new report 05-02-2014
The “World cancer report 2014”, released in the run-up to World Cancer Day, 4 February, confirms the truth of an old saying: prevention is better than cure. Based on the latest statistics on trends in cancer incidence and mortality worldwide, this new report reveals how the cancer burden is growing at an alarming pace, and emphasizes the importance of political commitment and urgent implementation of efficient prevention strategies to curb the disease.
WHO MiNDbank database: more inclusiveness needed in disability and development 29-01-2014
WHO MiNDbank is an online platform bringing together a range of country and international resources, covering mental health, substance abuse, disability, general health, human rights and development.
Healthy ageing is a life-long project – experts discuss how to implement healthy-ageing policies 20-12-2013
Thirty-four Member States participated in the first European meeting of national experts on ageing policies held in Utrecht, the Netherlands, on 16−17 December 2013.
Health system assessment contributes to stronger response to NCDs in Tajikistan 06-12-2013
The results of an assessment of health system features and innovations for better noncommunicable disease (NCD) outcomes were presented at a roundtable meeting in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, on 27 November 2013.
Addressing NCDs and key risk factors in Republic of Moldova – developments in past years 05-12-2013
In response to the high proportion of total mortality (87%) caused by noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in the Republic of Moldova, the country has been building a foundation for tackling these diseases since 2011.
Ashgabat Declaration signed: day 2 of Ashgabat conference on noncommunicable diseases 04-12-2013
Member States in the WHO European Region committed to the Ashgabat Declaration, “a landmark that will go down in the history of public health in Europe,” said Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe.
Aspiring to a tobacco-free future in Europe 04-12-2013
Encouraged by the benefits of reduced tobacco consumption, the 53 Member States in the WHO European Region pledged to accelerate their efforts to fully implement the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) by signing the Ashgabat Declaration during the WHO Ministerial Conference on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases in the Context of Health 2020, held in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan on 3–4 December 2013.
Tobacco-free Europe achievable: day 1 of Ashgabat conference on noncommunicable diseases 03-12-2013
Participants from across the WHO European Region explained the measures they are taking to combat noncommunicable diseases and expressed widespread commitment to making the Region tobacco free.
Tackling cancer, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes in 53 countries: health ministers meet in Ashgabat,Turkmenistan 02-12-2013
Tobacco and alcohol use, obesity and physical inactivity are among the principal causes of death in the WHO European Region. Despite progress in tackling noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), more needs to be done, so WHO is bringing together 35 European Member States at the WHO European Ministerial Conference on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases in the Context of Health 2020, to be held in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan on 3–4 December to find opportunities for regional action and cooperation.
WHO and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia strengthen collaboration to reduce NCDs 29-11-2013
The WHO Country Office in Skopje hosted a meeting on 11 November 2013 for national health experts on implementation of the WHO Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) Global Monitoring Framework and its adaptation to the national context. The Ministry of Health expressed strong political support for national action on NCDs and for closer collaboration with WHO.
Evidence-based guidance on nutrition 25-10-2013
The WHO Nutrition Guidance Expert Advisory Group (NUGAG) subgroup on diet and health has just closed its 6th meeting which was held at the WHO Regional Office for Europe in Copenhagen, Denmark. The NUGAG was established in 2010 to implement the new guideline development process and has met regularly since its establishment.
First national survey of disease risk factors in Republic of Moldova 23-10-2013
A nationwide, population-based survey on risk factors for chronic disease will be conducted for the first time in the Republic of Moldova from October to November 2013. The survey is based on the WHO Stepwise approach to chronic disease risk factor surveillance (STEPS) and will provide up-to-date information regarding the burden of selected chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and their risk factors. A random sample of 6000 people aged 18–69 across the country will participate in the survey.
4th European Conference on Health Promoting Schools. Odense, Denmark 7-9 October 2013 01-10-2013
4th European Conference on Health Promoting Schools Odense, Denmark 7-9 October 2013
Gastein meeting - Increasing capacity for the prevention and control of NCDs 24-09-2013
This meeting in Bad Gastein, Austria 2-3 October 2013, will focus on the current status of noncommunicable disease (NCD) action in eastern Europe and central Asia, and to discuss plans for the future.
Prevention of child maltreatment - technical discussion at RC63 20-09-2013
The new WHO report "European report on preventing child maltreatment" was presented at a technical briefing at the 63rd session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe on 17 September in Turkey. Approximately 50 participants attended the workshop. In the European Region, at least 18 million children under 18 years have suffered abuse. There are far reaching social and health consequences and deprived groups are at increased risk, but interventions to prevent abuse from occurring are cost-effective.
Psychiatric services not meeting demand – reform needed 19-09-2013
Across the WHO European Region, about 30% of years lived with disability can be attributed to mental disorders, but fewer than 50% of people with a mental disorder have ever received any kind of treatment and even fewer (10%) receive adequate care. This massive unmet need for treatment – the treatment gap – is the result of a combination of the stigma of mental health and mental health services, lack of accessibility and, when services are available, poor quality. Many people are reluctant to go for help owing to the fear associated with mental disorders and a lack of trust in the quality and effectiveness of treatment and care offered by mental health services.
At the crossroads: transforming health systems to address women’s health across the life course 02-09-2013
Centre for noncommunicable diseases discussed during visit of Russian Federation delegation 27-08-2013
The delegation – led by Dr S. Axelrod, deputy director of the department of international cooperation and public relations at the Ministry of Health – visited WHO/Europe on 19–21 August 2013.
Ashgabat conference on noncommunicable diseases 19-08-2013
The WHO European Ministerial Conference on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) is scheduled for 3–4 December 2013 in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. It will bring together ministers of health, senior officials, key partners and experts to discuss progress and challenges in the country-level implementation of the global and regional action plans on NCDs.
An interview with Phil James highlights the need for an all of government approach to tackle obesity 09-08-2013
“Weight gain and obesity have disastrous consequences in countries where malnutrition has been common in the last 50 or 60 years.” Phil James
Implementation plan for prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases in Tajikistan 01-08-2013
A round table discussion on the implementation plan for prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and injuries in Tajikistan for the period of 2013-2023 was held on 4 July 2013 in Dushanbe.
Ministers approve declaration: day 2 of nutrition and NCD conference 05-07-2013
Childhood obesity and the monitoring and surveillance of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) related to diet and physical activity were discussed on the final day of the conference. Ministers approved the Vienna Declaration, committing countries in the European Region to address the root causes of obesity and diet-related NCDs, and to empower citizens to make healthy choices.
Obesity the “new norm”: day 1 of nutrition and NCDs conference 05-07-2013
The changed physical and food environment in the WHO European Region means that obesity is now normal in biological terms. Participants recognized that intersectoral measures, including legislation, must urgently be put in place to reverse the epidemic of nutrition-related noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
Progress in bringing health into all policies 14-06-2013
On the final day of the 8th Global Conference on Health Promotion, participants recognized the need for the health-in-all-policies approach to be central to the development agenda of countries, regions and cities. For the European Region, this approach is an integral part of developing Health 2020 plans in countries.
Health promotion: from Ottawa to Health 2020 10-06-2013
Health promotion is the process of enabling people to increase control over and improve their health. Experts and policy-makers from around the world meet in Helsinki, Finland on 10–14 June 2013 to review progress and ways to promote health in every sector.
Analysing barriers for breastfeeding 07-06-2013
One of the indicators to monitor progress in improved health of women, newborns, children and adolescents is " Exclusive breastfeeding for six months". This was supported at the Sixty-sixth World Health Assembly held in Geneva.
Tobacco promotion creeps in through back door 30-05-2013
The tobacco industry is successfully using loopholes in legislation to market its products through social media, product placement, brand sharing and displays at points of sale. On World No Tobacco Day 2013, WHO calls for comprehensive bans on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship.
World Health Assembly closes 29-05-2013
Resolutions on a global action plan for noncommunicable diseases, health in the post-2015 development agenda, neglected tropical diseases, and standardization and interoperability of e-health were approved on the final day of the Sixty-sixth World Health Assembly.
Post-2015 development agenda in focus on first day of World Health Assembly 21-05-2013
The Sixty-fifth World Health Assembly, WHO’s annual global meeting of ministers and senior health officials, opened on 20 May. It will discuss a draft global action plan for noncommunicable diseases, as well as action plans on mental health and the prevention of avoidable blindness and visual impairment.
8th Global Conference on Health Promotion 21-05-2013
The 8th Global Conference on Health Promotion (8GCHP) focuses on how to promote health and equity by implementing the Health in All Policies approach. It will be held in Helsinki, Finland, from 10 to 14 June 2013.
Summer programme on noncommunicable diseases and the law 21-05-2013
The summer programme will bring together leading practitioners, policymakers, advocates, and academics in global health to explore the role and implications of law in the global response to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). It will take place at the O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law at Georgetown University on 17-21 June 2013, in Washington D.C., USA.
Hungarian food tax changes consumption patterns 01-05-2013
Adoption of the Public Health Food Tax (NETA) in Hungary in 2011 has had a positive impact on food consumption patterns. This was one of the conclusions of a health and financial impact assessment report presented to the media and public on 10 April 2013 at a school in Budapest, Hungary.
WHO/Europe in Copenhagen moving to new premises 05-04-2013
WHO/Europe’s head office, based in Copenhagen, Denmark, is moving to new premises during 22 March to 1 April 2013. All United Nations organizations in the Danish capital will come together in new premises known as UN City.
World Health Day 2013 – Reducing salt intake is key to reducing high blood pressure and stroke 04-04-2013
Reducing salt intake is one of the easiest ways to reduce high blood pressure and therefore the risks of stroke, and cardiac and kidney disease. Reducing salt intake to less than 5 g per day (the equivalent of about 1 teaspoon) reduces the risk of stroke by 23% and reduces the general rates of cardiovascular disease by 17%. The daily intake of most people in the WHO European Region is about 8–11 g, far above the recommended level.
High blood pressure: serious but often preventable 02-04-2013
High blood pressure – the focus of World Health Day 2013 – is a serious but often preventable medical condition. Diseases of the circulatory system account for nearly 50% of all deaths in the WHO European Region.
Meeting of Nutrition National Focal Points 25-03-2013
Nutrition focal points from 45 European Member States attended a meeting in Tel Aviv, Israel to advance the agenda of nutrition and health in European Region. The DG SANCO representative vouched for strong commitment from EU on the shared objective and vision to reduce overweight and obesity.
Estonian food manufacturers look to reduce salt in processed foods 07-03-2013
WHO/Europe and the Estonian National Health Development Institute held a joint workshop on 8 February 2013 on how to reduce salt and other selected nutrients in processed foods. Bringing together Estonian food manufacturers and public health experts from Estonia, Latvia and Montenegro, the workshop highlighted the importance of salt reduction for public health and the need for further collaboration in this area.
Slovenia publishes comprehensive review of trends in NCD morbidity and risk factors 22-02-2013
The National Institute of Public Health in Slovenia has published a comprehensive review of Countrywide Integrated Noncommunicable Disease Intervention (CINDI) health monitor surveys conducted in 2001, 2004 and 2008. The findings provide a detailed overview of the prevalence and trends of behavioural risk factors and health outcomes amongst adults in Slovenia. They also reveal that the distribution of noncommunicable diseases can differ in relation to socioeconomic context.
Switzerland announces national nutrition strategy 21-02-2013
A newly released nutrition report and strategy present the current nutritional situation in Switzerland, practical guidance for improving the nutritional and health situation at the population level and the country’s objectives and priorities for the coming years related nutritional issues.
Alcohol and tobacco use among young people falls in the Russian Federation 15-02-2013
Data published by WHO/Europe show a significant fall in alcohol and tobacco use by young people in the Russian Federation. The latest report from the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study shows a decline in the number of 13-year-old girls who smoke at least once a week. Weekly smoking among 15-year-old boys and girls is also decreasing.
New WHO report promotes workplace health in Poland 12-02-2013
A new WHO report "Situation analysis and recommendations for stewardship on workplace health promotion in Poland" provides evidence-based policy options to position workplace health promotion (WHP) as an integral part of the health system in Poland.
Countries’ capacity to address cancer 04-02-2013
Over 90% of the countries in the WHO European Region have national plans to address cancer, and more countries now collect data on the risk factors, according to a recent WHO survey.
New report assesses national capacity for the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases 04-02-2013
The report analyzes the survey results in the areas of NCD infrastructure, policies, surveillance and health system capacity. Offering a global overview, some results are also provided in a regional breakdown.
New publication on alcohol problems in the criminal justice system 18-01-2013
WHO/Europe has just published the publication entitled, Alcohol problems in the criminal justice system: an opportunity for intervention. This publication describes an integrated model of care for alcohol problems in prisoners, with elements for best practice.
Key WHO/Europe events in 2013 15-01-2013
Following the adoption of Health 2020, the European policy for health and well-being, in September 2012 and building on past resolutions and collaborative work, WHO/Europe plans many activities, campaigns and events in 2013.
WHO and Tajik Ministry of Health work together for effective management of NCDs 21-12-2012
WHO headquarters and the WHO Country Office in Tajikistan in collaboration with the Ministry of Health conducted a two-day training workshop for health care professionals across Tajikistan on 3-4 December 2012.
National congress focuses on disease prevention as key to strengthening public health in Slovenia 07-12-2012
The 5th Congress on Preventive Medicine, held in Portorož on 15–17 November 2012, brought together 250 public health professionals to focus on strengthening public health through disease prevention.
Extensive training of health specialists strengthens Republic of Moldova's capacity to address NCD epidemic 14-11-2012
A three-day training programme on prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) was conducted in October 2012 in Chisinau, Republic of Moldova for over 130 public health specialists, public health managers and managers of primary health care and hospitals at rayon and municipal levels.
Prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases: guidelines for primary health care in low-resource settings 13-11-2012
These guidelines aim to provide evidence based recommendations on diagnosis and management of type 2 diabetes and management of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in primary health care in low-resource settings.
Monitoring framework agreed to assess progress on NCDs 12-11-2012
After three days of discussion last week, WHO Member States agreed on a global monitoring framework to prevent and control noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including cancer, diabetes, heart disease and chronic lung conditions.
More evidence on linkages between NCDs and SRH in Entre Nous 24-10-2012
The 75th issue of Entre Nous explores the many parallels between noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) in terms of vulnerabilities and risks for and as a result of ill health, such as, poverty, inequity, social determinants of health and socio-cultural factors. This issue covers guidance in the implementation of the new European policy for health “Health 2020”.
Report on WHO/Europe’s work in 2010–2011 out now 23-10-2012
In a report on her first two years as WHO Regional Director for Europe, “What we’ve achieved together”, Zsuzsanna Jakab describes the work of WHO/Europe with Member States.
Flagship Course on Health System Strengthening: focus on noncommunicable diseases 17-10-2012
The annual Course was held in Barcelona, Spain between 25 September and 3 October 2012. It focused on assessing health systems’ performance, diagnosing barriers to their achieving better noncommunicable disease (NCD) outcomes, improving service delivery to scale up key interventions for primary prevention and disease management, and reviewing health financing instruments and financial incentives to support better NCD outcomes.
Health in an age of austerity: WHO at European Health Forum Gastein 10-10-2012
Speaking during the opening session of the European Health Forum Gastein in Bad Hofgastein, Austria last week, Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, underlined the health sector’s vital contribution to the general economy, and the importance of investing in public health, health promotion and disease prevention in times of austerity. As more and varied groups now have an interest in health, Ms Jakab also spoke of the continuing relevance and even greater importance of WHO, and how Health 2020, the new European policy framework, supports action across government and society to promote health and well-being.
Depression in Europe 10-10-2012
Depression is treatable, but about 50% of major depressions still go untreated. WHO encourages people who think they may be suffering from depression to seek advice, and reminds doctors to remain vigilant for symptoms. 10 October is World Mental Health Day.
Can fiscal policies reduce noncommunicable diseases? 05-10-2012
Governments increasingly turn to fiscal policies to address risk factors – tobacco use, harmful use of alcohol and unhealthy diet – associated with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). What works? What are the challenges? What experiences do countries have?
Noncommunicable disease (NCD) policy academy – equipping policy-makers for a multisectoral approach 05-10-2012
At an international WHO training seminar , held on 24–26 September 2012 in Birštonas, Lithuania, decision-makers in health policy learned how to use fiscal policy as a strategy to prevent NCDs.
More action is needed to reduce advertising of foods high in salt, sugar and fat to children 03-10-2012
A new report released by the International Association for the Study of Obesity (IASO) raises concern that exposure to advertising for junk food is not decreasing enough.
Turkey marks progress in fight against noncommunicable diseases 24-09-2012
Just six years ago, more than one in three adults in Turkey used tobacco products, which greatly increase the risk of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular disease, lung cancer, and chronic respiratory disease. But today Turkey is a success story. A new study of health professionals showing that more than 1 in 2 Turkish health managers have given up tobacco in the past 4 years, reflects what is being seen across the country.
Key findings of consultation on monitoring noncommunicable diseases released 18-09-2012
As part of the development of a comprehensive global monitoring framework for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), WHO/Europe held a web-based consultation to determine European Member States’ capacity to monitor the proposed voluntary targets and global indicators.
New Video "Healthy ageing in the European Region" is now available 14-09-2012
Video was prepared and shown at the 62 sesion of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe
Tajikistan develops strategy to tackle nutrition, diet and related noncommunicable diseases 12-09-2012
In Tajikistan, like in the majority of countries in the Region, nutrition-related health problems and foodborne diseases represent a considerable public health burden. Undernutrition is still a serious but least addressed health problem.
Outcomes regarding European Mental Health Action Plan at consultation in Oslo 10-09-2012
47 Member States participated in a consultation held in Oslo 3-5 September regarding both the Global and the European Mental Health Action Plans. The consultation resulted in strong support to both Action Plans, and agreement on a series of concrete actions for the European Regional Office.
Regional Committee opens on Monday in Malta 09-09-2012
Ministers and representatives from 52 countries in the WHO European Region are in Malta from 10-13 September 2012 for the sixty-second session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe.The session is being webcast and covered on Twitter (#RC62Malta).
53 countries to set new European health roadmap for 2020 and beyond 07-09-2012
Health ministers and senior officials from the 53 countries in the WHO European Region are gathering in Malta next week to vote on an ambitious long-term WHO European policy for health and well-being, Health 2020.
Working across sectors - NCD policy academy in Lithuania 06-09-2012
From 24-26 September 2012, an international training seminar in Lithuania will equip health policy decision makers to bring prevention of NCDs into policies in all relevant government sectors.
WHO holds consultation on the European Mental Health Action Plan and the Global Mental Health Action Plan 30-08-2012
Mental health problems are among the leading contributors to the burden of disease globally. In response to this, WHO is developing several interconnected and complementary activities that support Member States in producing comprehensive policies and strategies.
New hands-on approach to policy-making: Ukraine develops national plan at WHO/Europe 20-08-2012
Representatives from the Ukrainian Ministry of Health spent four productive days in early August at WHO/Europe working with noncommunicable diseases (NCD) programme managers to develop a draft national NCD action plan.
Applications invited for course on strengthening health systems 19-07-2012
The ninth Flagship Course on Health System Strengthening will be held in Barcelona, Spain from 25 September to 3 October 2012. Its theme will be how to strengthen health systems to tackle the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases.
Newly independent states aim to reduce noncommunicable diseases 13-07-2012
11 of the newly independent states (NIS) recently came together to map their health systems’ ability to tackle noncommunicable diseases. They identified common challenges and possible joint actions to develop a subregional initiative.
Communications campaign to reduce alcohol consumption – Republic of Moldova builds on European experience 13-07-2012
Experts from United Kingdom, Poland and Estonia shared their experiences with and results of national campaigns directed toward reducing alcohol consumption at a workshop on 4 July 2012 in Chisinau, Republic of Moldova. The workshop on effective communication in preventing the harmful effects of alcohol was organized by the Ministry of Health with support from the WHO Country Office.
Policy dialogue on public health services strengthening for improved NCD prevention and control, Astana, Kazakhstan, 27-29 June 2012 25-06-2012
WHO/Europe is organizing a policy dialogue on public health services strengthening for improved noncommunicable disease (NCD) prevention and control, in Astana, Kazakhstan, on 28-29 June 2012, for the Newly Independent States (NIS). This policy dialogue is a unique opportunity for Ministries of Health to discuss the state of the art on health systems for NCDs, and more specifically the implementation of the Essential Public Health Operations (EPHO) endorsed by the European Ministers of Health at the Regional Committee in Baku, Azerbaijan, September 2011.
WHO global forum for chief nursing and midwifery officers: strengthening their role in NCD prevention 18-06-2012
The World Health Organization convened the Fourth Global Forum for Government Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officers (GCNMOs) on 16-17 May 2012, in Geneva, Switzerland.
The tobacco industry’s unhealthy influence 31-05-2012
This year, World No Tobacco Day – 31 May – focuses on how the tobacco industry undermines the fight against the tobacco epidemic, and what can be done to stop it, including implementing WHO’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
World Health Assembly, day 2: resolution on noncommunicable diseases approved 24-05-2012
A resolution on strengthening noncommunicable disease policies to promote active ageing was approved by countries on the second day of WHO’s global annual meeting.
World health statistics 2012 report: increase of hypertension and diabetes 22-05-2012
The World health statistics 2012 report, released on 16 May 2012, highlights the growing problem of noncommunicable diseases.
Russian Federation to become a leading country in the Region to use strong graphic health warnings 15-05-2012
On Friday, the Ministry of Health issued a decree mandating graphic health warnings on all cigarette packs.
Strengthening national policies on NCD prevention and control in the Republic of Moldova 01-05-2012
On 25 April 2012, a roundtable took place in the Republic of Moldova to review current national policies directed toward prevention and control of the priority NCDs and related risk factors.
Empowering patients 17-04-2012
From passive recipient to co-producer of health care – health systems must involve chronically ill people as equal partners in their treatment to be effective. The First European Conference on Patient Empowerment was held in Copenhagen, Denmark on 11–12 April 2012. Read more …
"Dementia: a public health priority" - new report by WHO and Alzheimer’s Disease International 13-04-2012
The number of people living with dementia worldwide is currently estimated at 35.6 million. This number will double by 2030 and more than triple by 2050. Sadly, there is lack of awareness and understanding of dementia in most countries.
Deaths from tobacco in Europe 11-04-2012
Before the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control came into force in 2005, 16% of all deaths in adults aged over 30 years in the WHO European Region were due to tobacco. Read more…
Are patients in control of their health care? European conference promotes patient-centred health systems 11-04-2012
Health systems are usually organized to deliver care to patients with the professional at the centre. But this traditional view of the relationship between patients and doctors is being review at the first European Conference on Patient Empowerment, taking place in Copenhagen, Denmark on 11–12 April 2012.
Regional technical consultation on NCD surveillance, monitoring and evaluation 28-02-2012
In addition to informing the country consultation process, the Consultation discussed regional perspectives relevant for monitoring and evaluation of the European strategy for the Action Plan for implementation of the European Strategy for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases 2012–2016 and Health 2020.
Instrument to map management of noncommunicable diseases in primary care under development 08-02-2012
WHO/Europe is developing a new framework instrument to assess how effectively noncommunicable diseases are managed in primary care, in collaboration with the Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research.
WHO/Europe responds to call for development of NCD targets and indicators 06-02-2012
A Regional Technical Consultation on Noncommunicable Disease (NCD) Surveillance, Monitoring and Evaluation will take place in Oslo 9-10 February 2012.
First European Conference on Patient Empowerment - living with chronic disease 02-02-2012
The conference will take place 11-12 April 2012, in Copenhagen, Denmark and is organized in close technical collaboration with WHO/Europe under the auspices of the Danish Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Effectiveness of Tax and Price Policies for Tobacco Control 30-01-2012
This report gives a critical review and evaluation of the evidence by 25 international experts from twelve countries on the economics, epidemiology, public policy and tobacco control aspects of tax and price policies.
Hungarian smoking ban expected to cut the number of people treated in hospital or dying from heart attack and coronary illnesses by 10-15% within a year 16-01-2012
The strong nationwide smoke-free law covering public spaces (including workplaces, clubs and restaurants) came into force from 1 January 2012. It will fine an instant health care penalty upon the perpetrator of up to HUF 30 000HUF (EUR 100).
Strengthening the contribution of primary care in prevention and control of NCDs 11-01-2012
A regional WHO meeting in Amsterdam on 25-26 January 2012 aims to assist Member States and organizations in their efforts to implement the primary care actions and interventions described in the Action Plan for implementation of the European Strategy for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) 2012–2016, with a focus on cardio-metabolic risk assessment.
Reducing cancer: international community moves from resolution to action 18-11-2011
The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and its partners, including WHO, have developed a resolution that specifies measurable steps to reduce preventable deaths from cancer.
Diabetes epidemic in Europe 11-11-2011
Lifestyle choices are putting more people at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. World Diabetes Day 2011 focuses on prevention.
Women and cancer: screening and treatment save lives 03-11-2011
One in five women in the European Region will get cancer before the age of 75. A third of cancers are preventable, and common types among women – breast, colorectal and cervical – can be cured if detected early.
Deaths of 30 000 women can be prevented – WHO/Europe calls for more action on cervical cancer 19-10-2011
Last week, over 100 experts and policy-makers from 42 countries and 7 partner organizations gathered in Istanbul, Turkey to discuss the prevention of cervical cancer in the WHO European Region. This cancer kills 30 000 women in Europe every year – a preventable and unacceptable cost to society. An effective vaccine now exists to protect women against human papillomavirus (HPV), the primary cause of cervical cancer, and effective screening programmes can trigger life-saving action before the disease starts.
Investing in mental health: focus of World Mental Health Day 07-10-2011
World Mental Health Day (10 October 2011) focuses on investment. Good mental health contributes to economic prosperity, and improving a population’s mental health yields benefits in both human and economic terms.
Cervical cancer prevention – programme managers meet in Istanbul to strengthen decision-making and share experiences and best practice 05-10-2011
More than 40 Member States will meet in Istanbul to review progress and share experience, best practices and lessons learned within cervical cancer prevention. The meeting will take place 11-12 October 2011.
Healthy nutrition in schools 23-09-2011
Schools offer an opportunity to promote healthy eating habits that children can carry into adulthood, and to reach into the wider community.
New WHO/Europe centre on noncommunicable diseases opens in Athens 23-09-2011
At a ceremony today in Athens, Greece, a new centre on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) was opened by Andreas Loverdos, Minister of Health and Social Solidarity of Greece, and Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe.
Noncommunicable diseases top of world’s agenda 19-09-2011
Today and tomorrow (19–20 September 2011), high-level representatives of the 193 countries in the United Nations are meeting in New York, United States of America, to discuss the worldwide epidemic of noncommunicable diseases.
World No Tobacco Day, 31 May 2012 to focus on tobacco industry interference 16-09-2011
The tobacco industry makes the only legal consumer product that can harm everyone exposed to it - even non-users - and kills up to half of those who use it as intended.
Noncommunicable diseases country profiles 2011 - WHO global report 14-09-2011
The report features information about the noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) situation in 193 countries. This includes details of what proportion of each country's deaths is due to diseases such as cancer, heart and lung diseases, and diabetes.
Europe at forefront of global movement against major diseases 13-09-2011
In 2011, the world is waking up to a major threat to health and to economies. European governments are defining the actions they must take to control it. Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, heart disease, chronic respiratory disease and diabetes account for over 86% of deaths and 77% of the disease burden in the WHO European Region. In advance of a United Nations General Assembly high-level meeting on the subject next week, the health ministers of Europe are today set to discuss the core actions needed to control these diseases, in the face of the double burden of disease and financial crisis.
Free and anonymous mental health counselling meets a great demand in Kyrgyzstan 06-09-2011
In response to the inter-ethnic violent conflict, which escalated in June 2010 in the south of Kyrgyzstan, the WHO Country Office, Kyrgyzstan received funds from the Russian Federation to improve the provision of mental health interventions and medical services in Osh and Jalalabad oblasts.
Reducing road deaths in Turkey: Ministry of Health and WHO meet to discuss achievements of the Road Safety project 04-08-2011
The Ministry of Health’s primary health care team lead by Dr Seracettin, Com General Director, visited the WHO Country Office, on 29 July 2011. The aim of the visit was to review the progress of the Road Safety project in 10 countries (RS10) funded by the Bloomberg Initiative and also implemented in Turkey.
New evidence from WHO: inadequate housing causes more than 100 000 annual deaths in Europe 23-06-2011
Inadequate housing accounts for over 100 000 deaths per year in the WHO European Region and causes or contributes to many preventable diseases and injuries, including respiratory, nervous system and cardiovascular diseases and cancer. This is the main conclusion of a report, "Environmental burden of disease associated with inadequate housing", released today by WHO/Europe.
Inequity in cancer care: a global perspective 08-06-2011
Inequality in health reflects broader social inequality, this is confirmed in cancer patterns both in terms of its incidence and its treatment and survival. This publication focuses on the issue of inequality (disparity) as it applies to cancer care in general, and access to prevention, screening, palliative and treatment services in particular.
Changing risky behaviour key to tackling noncommunicable diseases 02-06-2011
The policy action needed at national and cross-national level to address the epidemic of noncommunicable diseases was again on the agenda as experts met in Budapest, Hungary, on 30-31 May 2011 at the ‘Action for Prevention’ Conference of the Hungarian Presidency of the European Union.
Tobacco-control legislation: already saving lives 30-05-2011
The evidence shows that tobacco legislation is working. Confounding its early critics, it is already saving lives and improving health across the WHO European Region. Studies from countries that enforce bans on smoking in public places are finding reductions in heart attacks. Exposure to tobacco smoke contributes to cardiovascular diseases, cancer and tuberculosis, and the scientific literature indicates that, just a few months after the implementation of smoke-free laws, the hospitalization rates for myocardial infarctions decrease by 20–40%.
New database on nutrition, obesity and physical activity 19-05-2011
Physical inactivity and unhealthy food habits are contributing to spiralling levels of noncommunicable diseases. WHO/Europe has developed a database to map policies on nutrition, physical activity and obesity throughout the WHO European Region.
Opening of World Health Assembly: Director-General urges ministers to “remember the people” 17-05-2011
The Sixty-fourth World Health Assembly, WHO’s global annual meeting for ministers and senior health officials, opened yesterday.
Pharmacists' contribution to public health in noncommunicable diseases: Budapest conference 29 June 2011 10-05-2011
The Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the European Union, together with the Hungarian Committee of Pharmaceutical Care, the EuroPharm Forum, and the WHO Regional Office for Europe will organize a joint conference for decision makers on pharmacists' contribution to public health in noncommunicable diseases, on 29 June 2011, Budapest, Hungary.
“Sport for all” policies encourage physical activity 10-05-2011
WHO/Europe is leading a project to encourage greater synergy between different sectors working to increase sport and health-enhancing physical activity. 10 May is Move for Health Day.
Headaches common but neglected 09-05-2011
WHO’s new atlas of headache disorders reveals that over half of all adults in the European Region have experienced migraine, tension-type headache or medication-overuse headache in the previous year. Nevertheless, these disorders are underrecognized, underdiagnosed and undertreated.
Experts agree on new European action plan on alcohol 06-05-2011
Countries’ experts on alcohol policy met in Zurich, Switzerland on 4–5 May 2011 to discuss the draft European alcohol action plan and a series of surveys planned on alcohol and health.
WHO meeting of National Counterparts for Alcohol Policy in the WHO European Region 04-05-2011
National Counterparts for Alcohol Policy in the WHO European Region will meet in Zurich, Switzerland 4-5 May 2011 to discuss the draft European Alcohol Action Plan, the planned surveys on alcohol and health and to exchange information between Member States on alcohol policy developments.
Noncommunicable diseases on global health agenda 02-05-2011
The First Global Ministerial Conference on Healthy Lifestyles and Noncommunicable Disease Control took place in Moscow, Russian Federation on 28–29 April 2011. European delegations met before the Conference to discuss the WHO European Region’s challenges in and solutions to the problem.
Burden of noncommunicable diseases is a top priority in Uzbekistan 27-04-2011
The Ministry of Health of Uzbekistan, in close collaboration with the WHO Country Office in Uzbekistan, is taking significant efforts in addressing the high burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in the country.
Turkey launches health promotion activities and efforts for communication to the public 14-04-2011
On 11-13 April 2011 the Health Promotion Department of the Ministry of Health in Turkey organized an international symposium on health promotion and communication. The aim was to share knowledge and information and contribute to health promotion studies in Turkey devoted to raising awareness among population through media campaigns on healthy behavior.
Countries contribute to action plan for noncommunicable diseases 24-03-2011
Representatives of 36 countries in the WHO European Region met in Copenhagen on 17–18 March 2011 to set a five-year course for effective action to tackle noncommunicable diseases.
Meeting with the European Respiratory Society 21-03-2011
Professor Francesco Blasi, Vice-President of the European Respiratory Society, met Ms Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, on 18 March 2011 to discuss potential areas of collaboration.
Consultation on action plan for noncommunicable diseases 16-03-2011
A consultation will bring together national focal points from European Member States and other stakeholders to develop a five-year operational plan for implementation of the European Strategy for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases.
Being physically active helps prevent cancer 04-02-2011
On World Cancer Day on 4 February, WHO/Europe points at physical activity as an effective means to prevent cancer, together with avoiding tobacco and following a healthy diet, and invites policy-makers to strengthen efforts to encourage active transport.
Health Experts Accept use of HbA1c for Diagnosing Diabetes 02-02-2011
A new test for diagnosing diabetes mellitus has been accepted by a WHO-backed group of experts, offering a more practical approach to test for the disease that affects over 220 million people worldwide.
High-level Consultation in the European Region on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases, with a Particular Focus on the Developmental Challenges 17-11-2010
25–26 November 2010, Oslo, Norway
Launching of WHO initiative Better health better lives: children and young people with intellectual disabilities and their families 12-11-2010
Better health better lives: children and young people with intellectual disabilities and their families is a WHO initiative that aims to ensure that all children and young people with intellectual disabilities are fully participating members of society, living with their families, integrated in the community and receiving health care and support proportional to their needs. The initiative will be launched at a conference in Bucharest, Romania 26 – 27 November 2010 in partnership with UNICEF and will result in a declaration that covers 4 key objectives.

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