Duha Shellah Appointed Vice Chair of EMR Youth Council Steering Committee

We are thrilled to announce that Duha Shellah has been selected as the Vice Chair of the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) Youth Council Steering Committee. This esteemed role highlights her as a leading voice for young public health professionals within the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA).

A Rising Star in Public Health

Duha Shellah’s dedication to public health is evident through her extensive work in health education, disease prevention, and mental health awareness. Her efforts have significantly impacted local and international communities, showcasing her as an inspiring leader in the field.

The EMR Youth Council Steering Committee

The EMR Youth Council Steering Committee is a vital platform for young professionals to influence public health policy and drive innovation across the Eastern Mediterranean region. As Vice Chair, Duha will guide the committee’s initiatives, promoting youth engagement and addressing key health challenges.

Event: Indigenous Determinants of Health and Decolonising Public Health Globally

We are thrilled to invite you to a significant side event hosted by the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) in collaboration with the Indigenous Working Group of the WFPHA. Taking place alongside the 77th World Health Assembly, this event promises to be enlightening and impactful.

Event Details:

Date: May 29th, 12:30 pm – 5:00 pm GMT+02:00

Theme: Indigenous Determinants of Health and Decolonising Public Health Globally

At this event, we will delve into the crucial topic of Indigenous determinants of health and the urgent need to decolonise public health practices worldwide. We are honored to have Mrs. Emma Rawson-Te Patu, the incoming President of WFPHA, leading this event alongside esteemed speakers and experts from around the globe.

What to Expect:

• Insights from International Indigenous Leaders: Gain valuable perspectives on the current state of Indigenous health from diverse regions.
• Group Discussion and Workshop: Engage in meaningful conversations and collaborative efforts to address ongoing health inequities and transform public health practices.
• WFPHA’s Commitment: Learn about the proactive steps WFPHA is taking to contribute to systemic approaches and the decolonisation of public health.

Facilitator:

Mr. Adrian Te Patu, Chair of the Indigenous Working Group WFPHA, will guide the discussions. Adrian brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, ensuring an engaging and productive event.

Speakers:

Our line up of speakers includes renowned individuals such as Dr. Alana Gall, Mr. Geoffrey Roth, Captain Hana Seddon, Ms. Jessica Apanui, and more. Each speaker will offer unique insights and actionable strategies for advancing Indigenous health and decolonising public health practices.

Registration: https://events.humanitix.com/indigenous-determinants-of-health-and-decolonising-public-health-globally

Due to limited invitations, we encourage you to respond promptly to ensure your participation.

This event represents a significant opportunity to drive positive change and foster collaboration in the realm of public health. We look forward to your presence and active engagement on May 29th.

Maternal and Child Oral Health Barriers and Solutions: Case Studies from South Africa, Brazil, and Indonesia

The World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) has launched a Global Maternal and Child Oral Health Initiative to integrate oral health into primary healthcare systems. This article explores maternal oral health initiatives in South Africa, Brazil, and Indonesia, identifying challenges and proposing solutions aligned with the WFPHA framework.

Introduction

Oral health is often overlooked in primary healthcare. The WFPHA aims to change this with its maternal oral health framework and Global Maternal and Child Oral Health Initiative. Highlighting efforts in South Africa, Brazil, and Indonesia, this article examines challenges and strategies for integrating oral health into maternal and child healthcare.

South Africa: Advocating for Maternal and Child Oral Health Policy

South Africa’s apartheid legacy has led to significant health disparities, including in oral health. An Integrated Maternal and Child Oral Health Policy aims to ensure prenatal and neonatal services include oral health education and screening. Key steps include enhancing leadership, building human resource capacity, and integrating oral health policy into existing frameworks. Recent advocacy efforts have made progress, including sessions at the 2023 Public Health Association of South Africa conference.

Brazil: Addressing Maternal Oral Health Disparities

Brazil mandates dental visits for pregnant women, but workforce shortages limit access, especially for teens. A study involving dental students educating pregnant teens showed improved oral health knowledge, suggesting that training future dental professionals in maternal oral health can help address workforce gaps and improve care for vulnerable groups.

Indonesia: Integrative Training Approach in West Kalimantan

The Antenatal Care Innovative (iANC) Project in West Kalimantan trains midwives and oral health professionals together to provide holistic care for pregnant women. This approach addresses oral health needs and enhances understanding of the connection between oral health and maternal well-being. Despite challenges, the iANC project has successfully implemented integrative care for pregnant women and their families.

Discussion

The cases from South Africa, Brazil, and Indonesia highlight the need for tailored policies, health promotion, and integrative care. Emphasizing workforce training, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and policy development can create comprehensive maternal oral health environments, improving access to care for mothers and caregivers.

Launch of the Youth Manifesto on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

14th May: Launch of the Youth Manifesto on AMR

On May 14th, the Young WFPHA as representative of the Quadripartite Joint Secretariat and its Working Group on Youth Engagement on AMR hosted a hybrid event at the WHO office at the UN in New York to launch the Youth Manifesto on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). This manifesto, developed through a global consultation with youth leaders, focuses on advocacy, education, patient care, and a One Health approach to AMR.

Key Calls to Action:

• Youth Engagement: Involve youth in AMR policy and program implementation.
• Collaboration: Establish initiatives and mentorship programs for youth-led AMR actions.
• Stakeholder Inclusion: Encourage countries and civil society organizations to include youth in AMR strategic planning.
• Educational Materials: Empower youth networks to create educational content on AMR.

Panel Discussion Highlights:

• Expanding AMR awareness to youth of all ages.
• Leveraging the power of youth communication for advocacy.

Notable Speakers:

• Javier Yugueros-Marcos, World Organization for Animal Health
• HE François Jackman, Permanent Representative of Barbados to the UN
• Werner H Obermeyer, Director, WHO Office at UN 
• Maria Angelica Murillo Correa, UN Environment Programme

Closing Remarks: Augusto Barón emphasized intergenerational unity and the importance of the Youth Manifesto in enhancing collaboration and action against AMR.

15th May: Multi-Stakeholder Meeting on AMR

The next day, the Quadripartite Joint Secretariat and the Office of the President of the General Assembly held a multi-stakeholder meeting, co-facilitated by Malta and Barbados.

Inaugural Address: Vanessa Carter, an AMR survivor, shared her story, highlighting the need for stronger AMR resources and actions.

Panel Highlights:

• Panel 1: Incorporating AMR into the Pandemic Accord, using contextualized data, recognizing economic impacts, and learning from TB eradication programs.
• Panel 2: Reducing volume-oriented antimicrobial sales, improving surveillance, manufacturing practices, and disposal systems, and establishing an AMR Fund.
• Panel 3: Containing AMR, promoting vaccinations, investing in WASH programs, setting AMR targets, and integrating AMR with UHC goals.

Closing Remarks: Representatives from Malta, Barbados, and Augusto Barón called for greater youth involvement in AMR policy and advocacy to secure a shared future.

These events underscored the vital role of youth and multi-stakeholder collaboration in combating AMR, paving the way for the UNGA High-Level Meeting on AMR in 2024.