Welcoming Emma Rawson Te-Patu: New President of WFPHA

On May 26, 2024, the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) proudly welcomes Emma Rawson Te-Patu as its new President. Emma belongs to the Māori tribal groups of Ngāti Ranginui, Ngai te Rangi, Raukawa, and Ngāti Hauā and is the first Indigenous woman to hold this esteemed position.

A Distinguished Leader in Public Health

Emma is the director at ManuKahu Associates Limited, an Indigenous consultancy in Āotearoa New Zealand. She holds a Master’s Degree in Public Health with a focus on Institutional Racism from Auckland University of Technology. Emma is currently working on developing a global framework for transformational public health, grounded in Indigenous knowledge, values, and human rights.

Vision for the Future

As President, Emma will prioritize decolonising public health globally.

Emma’s leadership promises to drive significant advancements in global health, fostering a healthier, more equitable world.

Please join us in welcoming Emma Rawson Te-Patu as the new President of WFPHA. Together, we look forward to her impactful tenure.

Welcoming Prof. Raman Bedi: New Vice President-president elect of WFPHA

The World Federation of Public Health Associations is delighted to announce the appointment of Prof. Raman Bedi as our new Vice President- president elect, effective May 26, 2024. Prof. Bedi’s extensive experience and distinguished career in public health make him an invaluable addition to our leadership team.

Prof. Bedi is based at King’s College London and has held esteemed positions, including an honorary chair at University College London and co-director of the WHO Collaborating Centre at the Eastman Dental Institute (1998-2008). He also held an honorary “Extraordinary Professorship” in Paediatric Dentistry at the University of the Western Cape, South Africa (2007-2010).

With experience in over 40 countries, Prof. Bedi brings a wealth of knowledge and a global perspective to WFPHA. His leadership will be instrumental in advancing our mission to promote public health worldwide.

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.

2023-2024 Annual Report Is Now Available!

Our 2023-2024 Annual Report is now available for viewing. This report showcases WFPHA’s key initiatives and activities aimed at protecting people, preventing diseases, and promoting global health and well-being.

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.