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.

The Hidden Global Trade in Patient Medical Data

The goal to global trade in health data is new treatments, but government regulations do not keep pace
Adam Tanner
January 24, 2017

Despite Their Economic Strides, China and India Lag on Health Care

World’s two most populous nations must remedy gaps in health care to realize their full economic potential
Zeena Johar and Xue Ying Hwang
December 17, 2015

To Eradicate Measles, Destroy Vaccine Myths

The World Health Organization may not reach its goal to eliminate measles by 2020
Paula Kavathas
February 17, 2015

To Contain Ebola Outbreaks, First Train Caregivers

The risks are high - Ebola diagnosis, treatment, care should be left to teams of well-trained providers
Manisha Juthani-Mehta
November 25, 2014