Friday, October 7, 2011

U.N. holds chronic diseases summit

I cannot believe that I was unaware that the U.N. General Assembly recently held a meeting to discuss the chronic diseases epidemic facing the world. This is the first time that the Assembly has met to discuss cancer, diabetes, and heart disease--all of which can be prevented. In the past, the Assembly has fought against the spread of flus, AIDS, and tuberculosis. However, with the growing number of people being diagnosed with diabetes, cancer or heart or lung disease, it is no wonder that the Assembly has forged a new agenda against these life-threatening conditions.

It's disheartening to read that in developing countries a diabetes diagnosis might mean death because the patient does not have the resources to stay healthy. While these countries have qualified specialists, there are not nearly enough for a country with millions of citizens.

So, what is the Assembly proposing? They plan on educating countries about the health risks associated with these chronic diseases. They also aim to provide developing countries with aspirin and blood pressure medicine. Some might feel like the Assembly could do more to help those in need; however, with the global economy in decline they are offering what they know they can deliver.