Rio de Janeiro Unites Against Diabetes: A Day of Action and Awareness

Working On November 14th, the world came together to observe World Diabetes Prevention Day, a crucial initiative aimed at raising awareness about diabetes and promoting preventive measures. In a remarkable display of collaboration, a special social action took place at the metro exit at Praça Antero de Quental, Leblon, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This event, organized by Dr Sonia Groisman (University Stadual of Rio de Janeiro) with the support of the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) Oral Health Working Group, brought together various institutions and professionals to address the multifaceted aspects of diabetes prevention.

Collaborative Efforts

The Federal University of Rio de Janeiro played a pivotal role, with the active participation of dental students, medical school endocrinologists specializing in diabetes, and experts from the School of Nurseries and Nutrition. Together with the Health Municipality of Rio de Janeiro, they provided essential services such as basic attention and vaccination, ensuring a comprehensive approach to public health.

Diabetes Screening and Risk Assessment

The Brazilian Society of Diabetes conducted glycosis tests and distributed a risk assessment form. This valuable information was then utilized by the basic attention group to direct patients toward appropriate orientations or treatments. The Brazilian Ophthalmology Society contributed by conducting fundus eye examinations, recognizing the importance of ocular health in diabetes management.

Empowering Through Information

The Regional Dentistry Council of Rio de Janeiro played a crucial role by printing banners and producing a thousand informative folders. These materials, created by dental students, featured a QR code that directed individuals to detailed information from the Brazilian Society of Diabetes. The initiative aimed to empower individuals with knowledge, emphasizing the integral connection between oral health and overall well-being.

Genetic Counseling and Awareness

The State University of Rio de Janeiro took the initiative to provide genetic counseling, further expanding the scope of diabetes prevention efforts. A standout feature of the event was a colossal mouth, measuring 6.5 meters long and 4.5 meters high. This visual representation featured aspects of both health and decayed teeth, serving as a powerful tool to educate the public on the importance of oral health for overall health.

A Unified Message

The T-shirts worn during the event bore a poignant message: “Oral Health is General Health” on the front and the slogan of the Diabetes Prevention Campaign on the back, stating, “Diabetes: Know your risk and live health.” This unified message echoed the essence of the event, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various aspects of health and the importance of proactive measures in diabetes prevention.

Strategic Partnerships and International Support

The event received support from the Global Child Dental Fund, the Alliance for Oral Health Across Borders and Colgate Brasil, underscoring the global significance of collaborative efforts in diabetes prevention.

Conclusion

The World Prevention Day of Diabetes in Rio de Janeiro stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through collaboration and a shared commitment to public health. By addressing various facets of diabetes prevention, from screenings to education and awareness, the event has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the community. As we reflect on this initiative, we are reminded that a united front against diabetes is not only possible but essential for building a healthier future for all.

Fostering Global Connectivity: A Recap of the Global Young WFPHA Networking Event

In an era marked by dynamic shifts in public health, the significance of uniting young professionals on a global scale has taken center stage. On October 31st, we marked a significant milestone with the launch of our Global Young WFPHA Networking Event.

Under the coordination of Luis Solis and Alessandro Berionni, and with the invaluable support of Wilmer Sancho, and David Peyre-Costa, we embarked on a journey to connect young public health professionals worldwide, laying the foundation for meaningful collaborations and visionary endeavors.

Building the Groundwork

Luis Solis, representative of the Health Equity Network of the Americas (HENA) commenced the event with a warm welcome, providing a compelling insight into the event’s mission. At its core, the Young WFPHA seeks to create a platform for global interconnectedness among young professionals in public health. This vision extends beyond a single event; it envisions the expansion of international networking opportunities and the introduction of regional events to fortify our community further.

The Unveiling of Young WFPHA

Alessandro Berionni, chair of the Young WFPHA, set the stage with an overview of the Young WFPHA. His presentation delved into the organization’s mission and objectives, connecting the event with our broader vision. Of particular note were the various Young Activities introduced to cater to the diverse interests of our community.

Guiding Young Professionals in the Global Health Arena

Alessandro Berionni also introduced the session that provided profound insights into the avenues available for young professionals to engage with international associations and organizations in the health field. We further augmented this session by providing a comprehensive summary document, outlined by Kerrie Stevenson, with all the main young regional and international associations to join.

This session was enriched by the presence of distinguished representatives from prominent WHO young networks, including Maurice Remy, representing the WHO Youth Council, Alessandro Catalini, representing the WHO Interns Board, and Balkiss Abdelmoula, representing the WHO GHWN Youth Hub.

Upcoming Endeavors and Regional Collaboration

Our commitment to enhancing the international public health landscape is exemplified by our forthcoming in-person regional event in Dublin at the European Public Health Conference.

This event, jointly organized with EUPHAnxt and expertly coordinated by Monica Georgiana Brinzac, promises to be a pivotal gathering.

In our pursuit of regional collaboration, we are actively establishing official contacts with Young Branches of National Public Health Associations worldwide. For those affiliated with such branches, we invite you to complete the form provided here.

Interactive Networking Activities

The core of our event was made by these networking activities that provided participants with an opportunity to interact and contribute actively. These activities were thoughtfully organized into five separate breakout rooms, each led by our dedicated regional coordinators:

Luis Solis for the American Region (AMR)

Frederico Israel for African Region (AFR)

Duha Shellah for the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR)

Mariam Hachem for the Western Pacific Region (WPR)

Monica Brinzac for European Region (EUR)

Soun Thida for Southeast Asia Region (SEAR)

After 30 minutes the groups reconvened to present and discuss together the main points raised during the breakout rooms.

Key Takeaways and Profound Outcomes

Throughout the event, we deliberated on key topics, generating valuable takeaways. Our discussions spanned issues such as workforce capacity, equitable remuneration, the impact of starting at the local level on a global scale, ensuring the right tools are in place, strategies to reach a broader audience, and the complex challenge of retaining young professionals within the field.

This event has underlined the extraordinary potential of collaborative efforts, further galvanizing our commitment to making a positive impact on global health.

#WFPHA #YoungWFPHA #GlobalHealth #NetworkingEvent #youthforhealth

A Week of Collaboration and Exploration: A Glimpse into WFPHA President’s Journey in China

In a week packed with meaningful engagements and collaborations, the President of the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA), Prof Luis Eugenio De Souza, embarked on a journey to strengthen ties and exchange insights with key players in the public health arena. Here’s a brief recap of the notable events that unfolded during this enriching week.

Tuesday, November 14th: Renewal of MoU with CPMA

Kicking off the week with a significant milestone, the President of WFPHA, Prof Luis Eugenio De Souza, signed the renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between WFPHA and the China Preventive Medicine Association (CPMA). This reaffirmed our commitment to collaboration and shared goals in advancing public health initiatives on a global scale.

Wednesday, November 15th: Exploring Collaborations with CDC China

A pivotal moment in the week was the visit to the China Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC China). The discussions and interactions during this visit aimed to foster collaboration and mutual understanding, laying the groundwork for future joint efforts in addressing public health challenges.

Wednesday Continued: Visiting the Pekin School of Population Medicine and Public Health

Professor Luis Eugenio had a valuable meeting with Feng Luzhao, the Vice Director of the Pekin School of Population Medicine and Public Health.

Friday, November 17th: Building Connections with Shanghai Preventive Medicine Association

Continuing the momentum, Prof Luis Eugenio De Souza met with the President of the Shanghai Preventive Medicine Association, who also serves as the Dean of the Shanghai Medical College at Fudan University. This meeting provided a platform to discuss shared objectives, potential collaborations, and innovative approaches in the field of preventive medicine.

Saturday, November 18th: Sharing Insights at the 3rd Belt and Road Training Course

The week reached another high point with the participation in the opening ceremony of the 3rd Belt and Road Training Course. Prof Luis Eugenio De Souza not only shared valuable insights on Tropical Diseases in Brazil but also seized the opportunity to connect with a diverse audience passionate about global health issues.

“Belt and Road” Training Course on Prevention and Control Technology of Tropical Diseases in Lancang Mekong Region took place on 18-22 November 2023 in Shanghai, China.

Saturday Continued: Exploring the Shanghai School of Global Health

Wrapping up the week, Prof Luis Eugenio De Souza, had the privilege of meeting Dr. Xiaonong Zhou, who introduced them to the Shanghai School of Global Health. This introduction opened doors to potential collaborations and knowledge exchange in the realm of global health research and education.

This week in China was not just a series of meetings; it was a journey of building bridges, fostering partnerships, and contributing to the global discourse on public health. As WFPHA continues its mission, these collaborations serve as stepping stones towards a healthier and more interconnected world.

World Federation of Public Health Associations Endorses SESPAS Statement

The Spanish Society for Public Health and Health Administration (SESPAS) has strongly denounced the dire humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, emphasizing the devastating impact on public health. The endorsement of the European Union’s communiqué on the Israel-Hamas conflict is acknowledged, but SESPAS calls for concrete and immediate measures to prevent a public health catastrophe.

SESPAS urges the European Union to ensure the protection of civilians by maintaining the supply of essential services. Water, energy, and basic supplies must not be used as weapons of war. SESPAS calls on Spanish and European authorities to influence international bodies, emphasizing the need for a cessation of hostilities and respect for international humanitarian law.

Facing Leadership that Kills receives the Best Paper Award at APHA 2023

Join us in congratulating Dr. Alex Jadad, a member of our Public Health Leadership Coalition, for ‘Facing Leadership that Kills’, which received the Best Paper Award sponsored by the Journal of Public Health Policy, during the 2023 American Public Health Association Meeting, and was published in The World Federation of Public Health Associations’ Pages.

5th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention on Mercury

Edited from the Earth Negotiations Bulletin

The Minamata Convention on Mercury, which is an international treaty, was adopted on October 10, 2013 and entered into force on August 16, 2017, and governments committed themselves to protecting human health and the environment from mercury and mercury compounds.

Mercury, as a naturally occurring element, can be released into the air and water through the weathering of rock containing mercury ore or through human activities such as industrial processes, mining, deforestation, waste incineration, and burning fossil fuels. Mercury-containing products such as dental amalgam, electrical applications, laboratory and medical instruments, batteries, antiseptic and antibacterial creams, and skin-lightening creams can also release mercury.

Effects on fetal neurological development, lowered fertility, brain and nerve damage, and heart disease have been linked to exposure to mercury. The Minamata Convention bans new mercury mines and calls for the phase-out of existing ones. It also contains control measures on emissions and products containing mercury and the regulation of mercury use in artisanal and small-scale gold mining. The Convention also addresses interim storage of mercury and its disposal once it becomes waste, sites contaminated by mercury, and health issues.

This year, when parties to the Minamata Convention convened for the 5th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP-5), while commemorating the 10th anniversary of the Convention, they discussed further actions that will help make the promise of this treaty a reality. COP-5 took place in Geneva, Switzerland, from October 30 to November 3, 2023. Over 846 delegates participated in person, and for the first time, the meeting was broadcast via livestream to 900 viewers, with the recordings available following each plenary session. The Convention currently has 147 parties.

Parties agreed to update Annexes A and B of the Convention to list phaseout dates for certain types of batteries, switches and relays, fluorescent lamps, and cosmetics, and mandate the phaseout of mercury as a catalyst in polyurethane production by 2025. They also agreed on language declaring mercury-free processes for production of sodium or potassium methylate or ethylate to be technically and economically feasible. However, efforts by the African Group and other parties to agree on a phaseout of dental amalgam, which is still widely used for dental fillings, did not achieve consensus. The final decision only requires parties that have not yet phased out dental amalgam to report on how they plan to do so.

A decision on mercury waste thresholds means that countries have a fixed standard now for measuring whether imports and exports contaminated with mercury contain more than the allowed total concentration value of 15 mg/kg. This is important for countries who fear becoming global dumping grounds for mercury-contaminated wastes, as it gives an international standard for deciding whether a shipment should be blocked. It also means that producer nations now have a benchmark for blocking exports of mercury-contaminated waste.

COP-5 applauded the 95% rate of national reporting on what parties have done to meet their obligations under the Convention. Parties welcomed the second review of the Convention’s financial mechanism, which provides new guidance to the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and notes that the GEF increased its funding for the Minamata Convention by more than 30% in its latest replenishment. COP-5 adopted the budget and program of work for the 2024–25 biennium, approving a core budget of USD 8.4 million and estimating needs of USD 4.83 million for its Special Trust Fund. COP-5 also saw some emerging themes that are likely to shape the work of the Convention in years to come.

COP-5 accomplished a lot. However, several issues for COP-6 in November 2025 are to be resolved, including phasing out dental amalgam and all mercury-added cosmetics and establishing the feasibility of mercury-free vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) production. COP-6 will also examine the draft guidance on trade, a report on national emission inventories and plans.