Since human migrations began, germs have traveled with people, animals and traded goods. In an interconnected and mobile world, diseases such as HIV/AIDS and SARS can spread rapidly. Yet international cooperation through agencies such as the World Health Organization also allows for a collective response to global health threats and faster response times. Nations have developed diverse health care systems, aiming for cost-effective treatment. Yet the diverse systems contribute to disparities in global health, including availability of technology, pharmaceutical companies targeting innovations to maximize profits, and providers abandoning areas of need for higher salaries in the West, just to name a few.

Asian Airports Screen Passengers for Flu-like Symptoms

WHO issues global health alert.
March 17, 2003

From China to Panama, A Trail of Poisoned Medicine

Counterfeit syrup used in a variety of medicines kills thousands in seven nations
Walt Bogdanich
May 8, 2007

Outsourcing a Womb

Some working women have no time to spare for pregnancy
Gagandeep Kaur
May 31, 2007

Tainted Chinese Imports Common

China is in a big rush to feed the world, flooding the market with unfit food
Rick Weiss
May 24, 2007

Brazil to Break Merck AIDS Drug Patent to Lower Price

Generic producers, activists and Thailand welcome decision
Katia Cortes
May 17, 2007