Public Health Daily News Snippets WHO Bulletin Releases Special Edition on Traditional Medicine Ahead of Global Summit The WHO Bulletin published its first special issue on traditional medicine since 1977, featuring research and policy analyses. This release precedes the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine scheduled for December 2025 in New Delhi. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health, Traditional Medicine Integration Read More Global Summit in Geneva Intensified Efforts to Curb Toxic Mercury Pollution A major international conference was held in Geneva from 3rd to 7th November 2025 to strengthen the global fight against mercury pollution . Delegates collaborated to accelerate the phase-out of this toxic metal from products and industrial processes, aiming to protect human health and the environment. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : United Nations Environmental Health, International Policy Read More Fitness & Nation-Building: Insights from the National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 The first-ever National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 in Mumbai brought together policymakers, athletes, and industry leaders to reaffirm one message: India’s progress towards becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047 depends on how seriously we take fitness today. With icons from sports and cinema joining the conversation, the conclave highlighted fitness as both a cultural shift and a public health necessity. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fit India Movement, Physical Activity, Non-Communicable Diseases, Viksit Bharat Read More Global Evidence Review of the Inequality- Pandemic Cycle: UNAIDS report The UNAIDS established the “Global Council on Inequality, AIDS and Pandemic ” in 2023. Its report “Breaking the inequality-pandemic cycle ” released in November 2025 is based on evidence from more than 1500 peer-reviewed literature and reports from government agencies and research institutions across multiple pandemics and its own empirical studies over the past 2 years. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), 2025 Pandemic preparedness, Social inequality, Global Health Read More Decomposition Analysis of Factors Driving Global Maternal Mortality Reduction A new Lancet Global Health paper highlights evidence that combining family planning with quality maternity services has driven a 41% global decline in maternal deaths since 2000. The study shows how contraception alone prevented more than 77,000 maternal deaths in 2023. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : The Lancet Global Health Maternal Health, Reproductive & Sexual Health, Gender Equality, Family Planning, Declining Global Maternal Mortality Read More Delhi’s Air Quality Sees Noticeable Improvement: CAQM 2025 Report The 2025 update from the C ommission for A ir Q uality M anagement (CAQM ) highlights significant enhancements in Delhi's air quality and a marked reduction in stubble-burning incidents in nearby states. The report offers data-backed evidence of collaborative efforts to reduce pollution through the use of cleaner fuels, improved waste management, and more stringent regulatory measures. Published on : Tuesday, November 18, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Air Pollution, Environmental Health, Public Health Policy Read More Genomic Collaboration for a Safer Future: India and Italy Unite for Pandemic Preparedness The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) round table in New Delhi emphasized the power of genomic research and collaboration in strengthening pandemic preparedness. Experts called for sustained global surveillance and rapid translation of genomic data to safeguard public health. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Genomic Surveillance, Pandemic Readiness Read More WHO Unveils Global Agenda to Strengthen Paediatric Clinical Trials The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global research agenda to close gaps in evidence on child health. It prioritizes equitable, high-impact paediatric trials to ensure that treatments for children are safe, effective, and grounded in sound science. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Health Research, Pediatric Health, Clinical Trials Read More WHO refutes Tylenol-Autism Link: Urges Evidence-Based Care A statement by the current US President, which linked Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism, prompted an immediate response from the World Health Organization. The WHO clarified that no scientific evidence supports this claim and urged reliance on medical guidance. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Maternal and Child Health, Health Communication, Global Health Governance Read More 2025 Lancet Countdown Report on Climate Change and Health Impacts of climate inaction have led to a 23% increase in heat-related deaths since the 1990s. Food insecurity affected 124 million more people due to extreme weather in 2023, with losses reaching $1.35 trillion. Addressing climate change has prevented 160,000 premature deaths from coal pollution and supported 16 million jobs in renewable energy. With COP30 ahead, WHO, along with member states, plans to emphasize climate action and a swift transition away from fossil fuels. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Climate change, food insecurity, Sustainability Read More WHO Introduces New Global Framework to Enhance National Health Emergency Response The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global guide, the National Health Emergency Alert and Response Framework, to bolster countries' readiness for health crises. Developed from lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, it provides a standardized approach for managing emergencies. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health Security, Emergency Preparedness Read More Training Modules to Strengthen Chemical Emergency Preparedness and Response in India The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has introduced three specialized training modules to enhance India’s capacity for managing chemical emergencies. This initiative aims to build a skilled, coordinated response system across healthcare and disaster management sectors. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : PIB Delhi Chemical Emergencies Preparedness, IHR, Disaster management Read More Daily News Snippets Monthly Archives 01-10 February, 2024 View More 14-20 January, 2024 View More 19-25th November, 2024 (26) View More 23-31stOctober, 2023 (18) View More 28-31 January, 2024 View More 7-13 January, 2024 View More 5-11th November, 2023 (5) View More 15-21st October, 2023 (12) View More 21-27 January, 2024 View More 26-30th November, 2024 (20) View More 01-04th November, 2023(4) View More 08-14th October, 2023 (5) View More March 27 - 31, 2023 (15) View More March 6 - 12, 2023 (24) View More February 23 - 25, 2023 (3) View More February 15 - 16, 2023 (8) View More March 20 - 25, 2023 (18) View More March 1 - 5, 2023 (8) View More February 20 - 22, 2023 (2) View More February 07 - 14, 2023 (5) View More March 13 - 18, 2023 (8) View More February 26 - 28, 2023 (15) View More February 17 - 19, 2023 (3) View More February 01 - 06, 2023 (5) View More Subscribe to get Latest Public Health Updates SUBSCRIBE

Comparison of effects of the pandemic on the progress of SDGs: Study findings Comparison of effects of the pandemic on the progress of SDGs: Study findings Content Editor: Dr. Sakshi Aggarwal July 30, 2024 PLoS One Journal COVID-19, Sustainable Development Goals, Inequities A recent study in the PLOS ONE Journal analyzes the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on 43 SDG health indicators across 185 countries. The study also compared the actual progress to projected progress based on pre-pandemic trends to assess the pandemic's impact on global health. It draws attention to the widening gap in global health, with low-income nations predicted to have a 34% decline in infectious disease progress loss as opposed to 6% in high-income nations. Low-income countries may experience a 16% average progress loss across health indicators, while high-income countries might see a 3% loss. Extrapolation was done using the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) pre-COVID-19 economic projections to predict health outcomes from 2020 to 2030. A comparison of baseline (pre-COVID-19) and post-COVID-19 scenarios revealed substantial economic growth losses , especially in low—and lower-middle-income countries (42% and 28%, respectively) compared to high—and upper-middle-income countries (15% and 7%, respectively). The study highlights the widening gap between rich and poor nations during the pandemic. While wealthier countries could better manage the crisis, poorer nations faced more significant challenges due to limited resources. This study points towards action plans to diminish inequalities as a part of global health agendas. Click here to read more.

Public Health Daily News Snippets WHO Bulletin Releases Special Edition on Traditional Medicine Ahead of Global Summit The WHO Bulletin published its first special issue on traditional medicine since 1977, featuring research and policy analyses. This release precedes the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine scheduled for December 2025 in New Delhi. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health, Traditional Medicine Integration Read More Global Summit in Geneva Intensified Efforts to Curb Toxic Mercury Pollution A major international conference was held in Geneva from 3rd to 7th November 2025 to strengthen the global fight against mercury pollution . Delegates collaborated to accelerate the phase-out of this toxic metal from products and industrial processes, aiming to protect human health and the environment. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : United Nations Environmental Health, International Policy Read More Fitness & Nation-Building: Insights from the National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 The first-ever National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 in Mumbai brought together policymakers, athletes, and industry leaders to reaffirm one message: India’s progress towards becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047 depends on how seriously we take fitness today. With icons from sports and cinema joining the conversation, the conclave highlighted fitness as both a cultural shift and a public health necessity. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fit India Movement, Physical Activity, Non-Communicable Diseases, Viksit Bharat Read More Global Evidence Review of the Inequality- Pandemic Cycle: UNAIDS report The UNAIDS established the “Global Council on Inequality, AIDS and Pandemic ” in 2023. Its report “Breaking the inequality-pandemic cycle ” released in November 2025 is based on evidence from more than 1500 peer-reviewed literature and reports from government agencies and research institutions across multiple pandemics and its own empirical studies over the past 2 years. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), 2025 Pandemic preparedness, Social inequality, Global Health Read More Decomposition Analysis of Factors Driving Global Maternal Mortality Reduction A new Lancet Global Health paper highlights evidence that combining family planning with quality maternity services has driven a 41% global decline in maternal deaths since 2000. The study shows how contraception alone prevented more than 77,000 maternal deaths in 2023. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : The Lancet Global Health Maternal Health, Reproductive & Sexual Health, Gender Equality, Family Planning, Declining Global Maternal Mortality Read More Delhi’s Air Quality Sees Noticeable Improvement: CAQM 2025 Report The 2025 update from the C ommission for A ir Q uality M anagement (CAQM ) highlights significant enhancements in Delhi's air quality and a marked reduction in stubble-burning incidents in nearby states. The report offers data-backed evidence of collaborative efforts to reduce pollution through the use of cleaner fuels, improved waste management, and more stringent regulatory measures. Published on : Tuesday, November 18, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Air Pollution, Environmental Health, Public Health Policy Read More Genomic Collaboration for a Safer Future: India and Italy Unite for Pandemic Preparedness The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) round table in New Delhi emphasized the power of genomic research and collaboration in strengthening pandemic preparedness. Experts called for sustained global surveillance and rapid translation of genomic data to safeguard public health. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Genomic Surveillance, Pandemic Readiness Read More WHO Unveils Global Agenda to Strengthen Paediatric Clinical Trials The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global research agenda to close gaps in evidence on child health. It prioritizes equitable, high-impact paediatric trials to ensure that treatments for children are safe, effective, and grounded in sound science. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Health Research, Pediatric Health, Clinical Trials Read More WHO refutes Tylenol-Autism Link: Urges Evidence-Based Care A statement by the current US President, which linked Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism, prompted an immediate response from the World Health Organization. The WHO clarified that no scientific evidence supports this claim and urged reliance on medical guidance. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Maternal and Child Health, Health Communication, Global Health Governance Read More 2025 Lancet Countdown Report on Climate Change and Health Impacts of climate inaction have led to a 23% increase in heat-related deaths since the 1990s. Food insecurity affected 124 million more people due to extreme weather in 2023, with losses reaching $1.35 trillion. Addressing climate change has prevented 160,000 premature deaths from coal pollution and supported 16 million jobs in renewable energy. With COP30 ahead, WHO, along with member states, plans to emphasize climate action and a swift transition away from fossil fuels. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Climate change, food insecurity, Sustainability Read More WHO Introduces New Global Framework to Enhance National Health Emergency Response The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global guide, the National Health Emergency Alert and Response Framework, to bolster countries' readiness for health crises. Developed from lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, it provides a standardized approach for managing emergencies. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health Security, Emergency Preparedness Read More Training Modules to Strengthen Chemical Emergency Preparedness and Response in India The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has introduced three specialized training modules to enhance India’s capacity for managing chemical emergencies. This initiative aims to build a skilled, coordinated response system across healthcare and disaster management sectors. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : PIB Delhi Chemical Emergencies Preparedness, IHR, Disaster management Read More Daily News Snippets Monthly Archives 01-10 February, 2024 View More 14-20 January, 2024 View More 19-25th November, 2024 (26) View More 23-31stOctober, 2023 (18) View More 28-31 January, 2024 View More 7-13 January, 2024 View More 5-11th November, 2023 (5) View More 15-21st October, 2023 (12) View More 21-27 January, 2024 View More 26-30th November, 2024 (20) View More 01-04th November, 2023(4) View More 08-14th October, 2023 (5) View More March 27 - 31, 2023 (15) View More March 6 - 12, 2023 (24) View More February 23 - 25, 2023 (3) View More February 15 - 16, 2023 (8) View More March 20 - 25, 2023 (18) View More March 1 - 5, 2023 (8) View More February 20 - 22, 2023 (2) View More February 07 - 14, 2023 (5) View More March 13 - 18, 2023 (8) View More February 26 - 28, 2023 (15) View More February 17 - 19, 2023 (3) View More February 01 - 06, 2023 (5) View More Subscribe to get Latest Public Health Updates SUBSCRIBE

Public Health Daily News Snippets WHO Bulletin Releases Special Edition on Traditional Medicine Ahead of Global Summit The WHO Bulletin published its first special issue on traditional medicine since 1977, featuring research and policy analyses. This release precedes the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine scheduled for December 2025 in New Delhi. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health, Traditional Medicine Integration Read More Global Summit in Geneva Intensified Efforts to Curb Toxic Mercury Pollution A major international conference was held in Geneva from 3rd to 7th November 2025 to strengthen the global fight against mercury pollution . Delegates collaborated to accelerate the phase-out of this toxic metal from products and industrial processes, aiming to protect human health and the environment. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : United Nations Environmental Health, International Policy Read More Fitness & Nation-Building: Insights from the National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 The first-ever National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 in Mumbai brought together policymakers, athletes, and industry leaders to reaffirm one message: India’s progress towards becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047 depends on how seriously we take fitness today. With icons from sports and cinema joining the conversation, the conclave highlighted fitness as both a cultural shift and a public health necessity. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fit India Movement, Physical Activity, Non-Communicable Diseases, Viksit Bharat Read More Global Evidence Review of the Inequality- Pandemic Cycle: UNAIDS report The UNAIDS established the “Global Council on Inequality, AIDS and Pandemic ” in 2023. Its report “Breaking the inequality-pandemic cycle ” released in November 2025 is based on evidence from more than 1500 peer-reviewed literature and reports from government agencies and research institutions across multiple pandemics and its own empirical studies over the past 2 years. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), 2025 Pandemic preparedness, Social inequality, Global Health Read More Decomposition Analysis of Factors Driving Global Maternal Mortality Reduction A new Lancet Global Health paper highlights evidence that combining family planning with quality maternity services has driven a 41% global decline in maternal deaths since 2000. The study shows how contraception alone prevented more than 77,000 maternal deaths in 2023. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : The Lancet Global Health Maternal Health, Reproductive & Sexual Health, Gender Equality, Family Planning, Declining Global Maternal Mortality Read More Delhi’s Air Quality Sees Noticeable Improvement: CAQM 2025 Report The 2025 update from the C ommission for A ir Q uality M anagement (CAQM ) highlights significant enhancements in Delhi's air quality and a marked reduction in stubble-burning incidents in nearby states. The report offers data-backed evidence of collaborative efforts to reduce pollution through the use of cleaner fuels, improved waste management, and more stringent regulatory measures. Published on : Tuesday, November 18, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Air Pollution, Environmental Health, Public Health Policy Read More Genomic Collaboration for a Safer Future: India and Italy Unite for Pandemic Preparedness The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) round table in New Delhi emphasized the power of genomic research and collaboration in strengthening pandemic preparedness. Experts called for sustained global surveillance and rapid translation of genomic data to safeguard public health. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Genomic Surveillance, Pandemic Readiness Read More WHO Unveils Global Agenda to Strengthen Paediatric Clinical Trials The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global research agenda to close gaps in evidence on child health. It prioritizes equitable, high-impact paediatric trials to ensure that treatments for children are safe, effective, and grounded in sound science. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Health Research, Pediatric Health, Clinical Trials Read More WHO refutes Tylenol-Autism Link: Urges Evidence-Based Care A statement by the current US President, which linked Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism, prompted an immediate response from the World Health Organization. The WHO clarified that no scientific evidence supports this claim and urged reliance on medical guidance. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Maternal and Child Health, Health Communication, Global Health Governance Read More 2025 Lancet Countdown Report on Climate Change and Health Impacts of climate inaction have led to a 23% increase in heat-related deaths since the 1990s. Food insecurity affected 124 million more people due to extreme weather in 2023, with losses reaching $1.35 trillion. Addressing climate change has prevented 160,000 premature deaths from coal pollution and supported 16 million jobs in renewable energy. With COP30 ahead, WHO, along with member states, plans to emphasize climate action and a swift transition away from fossil fuels. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Climate change, food insecurity, Sustainability Read More WHO Introduces New Global Framework to Enhance National Health Emergency Response The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global guide, the National Health Emergency Alert and Response Framework, to bolster countries' readiness for health crises. Developed from lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, it provides a standardized approach for managing emergencies. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health Security, Emergency Preparedness Read More Training Modules to Strengthen Chemical Emergency Preparedness and Response in India The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has introduced three specialized training modules to enhance India’s capacity for managing chemical emergencies. This initiative aims to build a skilled, coordinated response system across healthcare and disaster management sectors. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : PIB Delhi Chemical Emergencies Preparedness, IHR, Disaster management Read More Daily News Snippets Monthly Archives 01-10 February, 2024 View More 14-20 January, 2024 View More 19-25th November, 2024 (26) View More 23-31stOctober, 2023 (18) View More 28-31 January, 2024 View More 7-13 January, 2024 View More 5-11th November, 2023 (5) View More 15-21st October, 2023 (12) View More 21-27 January, 2024 View More 26-30th November, 2024 (20) View More 01-04th November, 2023(4) View More 08-14th October, 2023 (5) View More March 27 - 31, 2023 (15) View More March 6 - 12, 2023 (24) View More February 23 - 25, 2023 (3) View More February 15 - 16, 2023 (8) View More March 20 - 25, 2023 (18) View More March 1 - 5, 2023 (8) View More February 20 - 22, 2023 (2) View More February 07 - 14, 2023 (5) View More March 13 - 18, 2023 (8) View More February 26 - 28, 2023 (15) View More February 17 - 19, 2023 (3) View More February 01 - 06, 2023 (5) View More Subscribe to get Latest Public Health Updates SUBSCRIBE

World Leaders Pledge $9 Billion to GAVI to Boost Global Immunization World Leaders Pledge $9 Billion to GAVI to Boost Global Immunization Content Editor: Dr. Chinmay July 12, 2025 Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy LMIC, Vaccination, International Health News At the “Health and Prosperity through Immunisation ” summit held in Brussels, global leaders committed nearly $9 billion toward Gavi’s 2026–2030 funding goal of $12 billion to enhance vaccine access in low- and middle-income countries. The event, co-hosted by the European Union, the Gates Foundation, and Gavi, brought together representatives from 55 nations, including 10 heads of state, 24 ministers, and various partners from civil society, industry, and global health organizations. Major pledges included $1.6 billion from the Gates Foundation, over €2 billion from Team Europe, €1 billion in liquidity support from the European Investment Bank, and €800 million for strengthening vaccine production in Africa. An additional $4.5 billion came from development finance institutions, along with savings and contributions from manufacturers and the private sector. These funds aim to help immunize 500 million children, avert 8 to 9 million deaths, and generate more than $100 billion in economic returns . With co-financing from participating countries and new donor involvement, Gavi is nearing its total funding target. While some donors fell short, the summit underscored the critical need for sustained investment to protect millions of children and reinforce global health security.

India deploys indigenous portable hospitals to border areas in view of Operation Sindoor Content Editor: Dr. Manu May 23, 2025 at 10:00:15 AM Medical Technology, Humanitarian and Disaster Relief, Emergency Preparedness As a part of the health preparedness efforts under Operation Sindoor , indigenously designed portable hospitals, the BHISHM (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita & Maitri) cubes were delivered to key areas at the India-Pakistan Border. This undertaking is a part of the Aarogya Maitri initiative to provide humanitarian relief through support and medical aid to other countries during disaster situations. The project has deployed these cubes during the Maha Kumbh where they treated a patient with cardiac arrest and were even provided to Ukraine on a pro-bono basis during the Russia Ukraine conflict. Under the BHISHM program, portable hospitals contained within 72 portable cubes , with each cube containing various medical equipment like surgical instruments, transfusion equipment etc. were made that contain Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tagged equipment that can be rapidly deployed in different areas and set up within 12 minutes to cater to mass casualty events. These portable hospitals have the ability to function as operation theatres and even collect blood from local donors to cater to transfusion needs in an emergency situation. A team from HLL Lifecare Limited delivered these cubes to Jammu, Rishikesh, Bhatinda, Kolkata and Shillong and even trained local healthcare staff to use these facilities. Previous Next

The National Family Health Survey (NFHS) is a large-scale and multi-round survey conducted throughout India. The primary goals of every round of NFHS were to provide essential data on health and family welfare and to provide information on important health and family welfare issues. NFHS-6 scheduled to be conducted in 2023-24, is expected to add a few more domain areas. Public Health News Analysis Ignoring the Already Ignored: Union Government to Exclude Disability-Specific Question from the NHFS-6 Author: Dr. Amey Patil Updated on : August 30, 2023 NFHS-6, Disability-rights, Demographic Health Survey NFHS-6 scheduled to be conducted in 2023-24, is expected to add a few more domain areas. However, the exclusion of a particular question has raised some eyebrows. Recently, the Union Government decided to drop the only disability-specific question from NHFS-6. The decision has not gone well with the community, activists, researchers, and policymakers. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS) is a large-scale and multi-round survey conducted throughout India. The primary goals of every round of NFHS were to provide essential data on health and family welfare and to provide information on important health and family welfare issues. NFHS provides state and national data on important indicators related to fertility, child mortality, infant mortality, quality of healthcare, reproductive health, non-communicable diseases, health insurance, nutrition, water and sanitation, and many other topics. The latest round of the NFHS (NFHS-5) of 2019-2021 provided information on some new issues like preschool attendance, death registration, ownership of physical and economic assets by women, HIV testing during antenatal care, domestic violence during pregnancy, etc. NFHS-5 also expanded additional components in the domains of non-communicable diseases, child immunization, hypertension, and diabetes. NFHS-6 scheduled to be conducted in 2023-24, is expected to add a few more domain areas. However, the exclusion of a particular question has raised some eyebrows. Recently, the Union Government decided to drop the only disability-specific question from NHFS-6. The decision has not gone well with the community, activists, researchers, and policymakers. Why Did the Union Government Drop the Disability-Specific Question? It took years of campaigning to finally add one question related to disability in the NFHS-5. It was expected to be a small stepping stone toward potentially building a more comprehensive dataset in successive rounds of the survey. However, the complete omission of the disability-specific question has made the disabled in the country feel dejected. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare stated that the question was omitted because the questions related to disability were already asked in the 76th round of the Sample Registration Survey (SRS) in 2018. The Ministry also claimed that the data on disability will 'not change fast.' It was also noted that the only question on disability in NFHS-5 reported under-reporting and did not give accurate data. It was difficult for surveyors to check medical certificates as disability is only decided based on a medical certificate. It was also observed that the question was difficult to understand. Why Is It Important to Include the Questions on Disability in NFHS-6? The number of people with disabilities has increased drastically over the years. According to the 2011 census, people with disabilities constituted 2.2% of the population. However, the number has increased to 4.5% as per the last round of NFHS. Therefore, it is very important to have updated data on people with disabilities. The SRS addressed various indicators of people with disabilities like incidence, prevalence, certificate of disability, education, unemployment, etc. However, the NFHS will provide more comprehensive and health-specific indicators like nutrition, family planning schemes, outcome and impact of health schemes, drinking water, use of contraception, health insurance, etc. NFHS-6 is also expected to cover around 6.1 sample households, which will make the data set representative and provide robust data on people with disabilities. The different approaches of various surveys are another reason why India ends up undercounting disability. The Right of Persons with Disability Act 2016 increased the type of disabilities from 7 to 21. The 21 disabilities are divided under the categories of Physical disability, Intellectual disability, Mental, Disability due to chronic neurological conditions and blood disorders, and multiple disabilities. NFHS-5 focused on counting people only with benchmark disabilities under the five categories of Locomotor, Visual, Hearing, Speech, and Mental. The Indian Census 2011 defined disability based on self-identification. However, the 76th round of the National Sample Survey (NSS) Report in 2018 covered all disabilities under the Rights of Persons with Disability Act 2016. It was expected that NFHS-6 would finally align the definition of disability. However, the complete omission of disability-related questions from NFHS-6 adds to the data gaps created due to undercounting of the disabled population of India. Disability rights activists like Paralympic fencer Vibhas Sen have demanded the inclusion of the disability-related question in NHFS-6. Sen has suggested focusing on the three areas of data collection, research, and effective dissemination for comprehensive data on people with disabilities. He believes that a comprehensive dataset is extremely important to identify the service gaps and evaluate the impact of policies. Conclusion The omission of questions related to disability and anemia from NFHS has stirred some controversy. The recent suspension of the Director of the Indian Institute of Population Sciences (IIPS), Prof. K.S. James, has added to that controversy. However, the omission of disability-related questions is against the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act of 2016. It is also against India's signatory to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). It also contradicts India's commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) by 2030. There should be efforts made toward refining and sharpening the questionnaire. The field staff should also be trained specifically to ask questions related to disability. NFHS-6 is expected to evaluate the impact and outcome of health schemes. It will also feature some new domain areas of COVID-19 hospitalizations, COVID-19 vaccinations, and Direct Benefit Transfers. The areas of utilization of services, health insurance, health financing, and family planning will also be evaluated. Therefore, completely ignoring an already vulnerable group of the population is unjustifiable. References Making disability count: The Hindu Editorial on why NFHS will yield more robust, data on the disability sector. (2023). The Hindu. [online] 2 Jul. Available at: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/making-disability-count-the-hindu-editorial-on-why-nfhs-will-yield-more-robust-data-on-the-disability-sector/article67034559.ece . Govt drops disability-related questions from National Family Health Survey. (2023). The Times of India. [online] 26 May. Available at: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/govt-drops-disability-related-questions-from-national-family-health-survey/articleshow/100526666.cms?from=mdr [Accessed 9 Aug. 2023]. Business Today. (2022). NFHS-6 to evaluate outcome and impact of health schemes. [online] Available at: https://www.businesstoday.in/latest/story/nfhs-6-to-evaluate-outcome-and-impact-of-health-schemes-332645-2022-05-06 [Accessed 9 Aug. 2023]. rchiips.org . (n.d.). National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5). [online] Available at: http://rchiips.org/nfhs/factsheet_NFHS-5.shtml . Anicca, A. (2022). Data Gaps: Undercounting Disability In India. [online] www.indiaspend.com . Available at: https://www.indiaspend.com/data-gaps/undercounting-disability-in-india-826835 [Accessed 24 May 2023]. comments debug Comments Rated 0 out of 5 stars. No ratings yet Rate the Article* Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Join the team Public Health Chronicle! APPLY NOW

Progress on World Health Assembly’s “pandemic treaty” Content Editor: Dr. Prachi Goswami January 9, 2024 at 1:30:00 PM Global Health, Pandemic An international agreement on response to future health emergencies has been negotiated in Geneva since last year’s World Health Assembly. Major points for negotiations are: Low and middle-income countries want equitable access to medical products. Waiver of intellectual property rights and access to research has been opposed by high-income countries. Common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR), i.e. countries having different obligations based on their socioeconomic status are also opposed by some high-income countries. There is a bigger pushback in the US, primarily because of distrust in the WHO by the Senate, which needs to give consent before the US can be part of the treaty. The current draft is weak in enforcement and has vague obligations , questioning its purpose. The deadline for countries to discuss it is in the May 2024 World Health Assembly, but there are concerns about it coming to fruition, given the slow pace of negotiations. Previous Next

Unveiling smartphone dependency among the elderly: Patterns and risks Unveiling smartphone dependency among the elderly: Patterns and risks Content Editor: Dr Sumana Mukhopadhyay March 14, 2024 BMC Public Health Elderly care, Smartphone, Addiction A recent study by Kim et al investigated smartphone usage and overdependence risks in individuals aged 50 and above in South Korea. 2021 nationwide survey data was analyzed for content usage and overdependence risk in the 50s and 60s age groups. The following factors were compared: Demographic characteristics Smartphone Overdependence Scale scores Self-awareness Digital literacy Psychosocial factors The 50s group showed higher digital literacy, social relations, life satisfaction, and overdependence scores. Lower education was linked to higher overdependence odds in the 50s; whereas employment and e-commerce engagement are linked to lower odds. For those in their 60s, lower education and adult content/gambling use were linked to higher overdependence odds. The study emphasized the need to address overdependence among middle-aged and older adults, highlighting age-specific risk factors.

Public Health Daily News Snippets WHO Bulletin Releases Special Edition on Traditional Medicine Ahead of Global Summit The WHO Bulletin published its first special issue on traditional medicine since 1977, featuring research and policy analyses. This release precedes the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine scheduled for December 2025 in New Delhi. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health, Traditional Medicine Integration Read More Global Summit in Geneva Intensified Efforts to Curb Toxic Mercury Pollution A major international conference was held in Geneva from 3rd to 7th November 2025 to strengthen the global fight against mercury pollution . Delegates collaborated to accelerate the phase-out of this toxic metal from products and industrial processes, aiming to protect human health and the environment. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : United Nations Environmental Health, International Policy Read More Fitness & Nation-Building: Insights from the National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 The first-ever National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 in Mumbai brought together policymakers, athletes, and industry leaders to reaffirm one message: India’s progress towards becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047 depends on how seriously we take fitness today. With icons from sports and cinema joining the conversation, the conclave highlighted fitness as both a cultural shift and a public health necessity. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fit India Movement, Physical Activity, Non-Communicable Diseases, Viksit Bharat Read More Global Evidence Review of the Inequality- Pandemic Cycle: UNAIDS report The UNAIDS established the “Global Council on Inequality, AIDS and Pandemic ” in 2023. Its report “Breaking the inequality-pandemic cycle ” released in November 2025 is based on evidence from more than 1500 peer-reviewed literature and reports from government agencies and research institutions across multiple pandemics and its own empirical studies over the past 2 years. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), 2025 Pandemic preparedness, Social inequality, Global Health Read More Decomposition Analysis of Factors Driving Global Maternal Mortality Reduction A new Lancet Global Health paper highlights evidence that combining family planning with quality maternity services has driven a 41% global decline in maternal deaths since 2000. The study shows how contraception alone prevented more than 77,000 maternal deaths in 2023. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : The Lancet Global Health Maternal Health, Reproductive & Sexual Health, Gender Equality, Family Planning, Declining Global Maternal Mortality Read More Delhi’s Air Quality Sees Noticeable Improvement: CAQM 2025 Report The 2025 update from the C ommission for A ir Q uality M anagement (CAQM ) highlights significant enhancements in Delhi's air quality and a marked reduction in stubble-burning incidents in nearby states. The report offers data-backed evidence of collaborative efforts to reduce pollution through the use of cleaner fuels, improved waste management, and more stringent regulatory measures. Published on : Tuesday, November 18, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Air Pollution, Environmental Health, Public Health Policy Read More Genomic Collaboration for a Safer Future: India and Italy Unite for Pandemic Preparedness The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) round table in New Delhi emphasized the power of genomic research and collaboration in strengthening pandemic preparedness. Experts called for sustained global surveillance and rapid translation of genomic data to safeguard public health. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Genomic Surveillance, Pandemic Readiness Read More WHO Unveils Global Agenda to Strengthen Paediatric Clinical Trials The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global research agenda to close gaps in evidence on child health. It prioritizes equitable, high-impact paediatric trials to ensure that treatments for children are safe, effective, and grounded in sound science. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Health Research, Pediatric Health, Clinical Trials Read More WHO refutes Tylenol-Autism Link: Urges Evidence-Based Care A statement by the current US President, which linked Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism, prompted an immediate response from the World Health Organization. The WHO clarified that no scientific evidence supports this claim and urged reliance on medical guidance. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Maternal and Child Health, Health Communication, Global Health Governance Read More 2025 Lancet Countdown Report on Climate Change and Health Impacts of climate inaction have led to a 23% increase in heat-related deaths since the 1990s. Food insecurity affected 124 million more people due to extreme weather in 2023, with losses reaching $1.35 trillion. Addressing climate change has prevented 160,000 premature deaths from coal pollution and supported 16 million jobs in renewable energy. With COP30 ahead, WHO, along with member states, plans to emphasize climate action and a swift transition away from fossil fuels. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Climate change, food insecurity, Sustainability Read More WHO Introduces New Global Framework to Enhance National Health Emergency Response The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global guide, the National Health Emergency Alert and Response Framework, to bolster countries' readiness for health crises. Developed from lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, it provides a standardized approach for managing emergencies. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health Security, Emergency Preparedness Read More Training Modules to Strengthen Chemical Emergency Preparedness and Response in India The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has introduced three specialized training modules to enhance India’s capacity for managing chemical emergencies. This initiative aims to build a skilled, coordinated response system across healthcare and disaster management sectors. 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