WHO’s Vital Efforts to Improve Health in Afghanistan
On November 24, 2024, Dr. Hanan Balkhy, the WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, wrapped up a significant three-day visit to Afghanistan. This visit aimed to address pressing health issues in the country. Dr. Balkhy met with various stakeholders, including the de facto authorities, health officials, and humanitarian partners. The discussions focused on critical health priorities such as polio eradication, equitable healthcare access, substance use disorders, and the development of a sustainable health workforce. Afghanistan faces severe health challenges, and the WHO’s commitment to improving health outcomes is crucial for the nation’s future.
Addressing Substance Use Disorders
Substance use is a growing public health crisis in Afghanistan, with over four million people affected. During her visit, Dr. Balkhy emphasized the urgent need for targeted interventions to combat this issue. She inaugurated the Balkh 50-bed Women and Children Drug Addiction Treatment Centre in Mazar-e-Sharif, one of twelve centers supported by WHO and its partners. This facility aims to provide essential treatment and rehabilitation services to those struggling with addiction.
Dr. Balkhy highlighted the importance of integrating individuals with substance use disorders back into their communities. She stated, “The issue of addiction in Afghanistan is a very large one. We will continue to work with our partners to ensure we can provide the help and support needed.” This commitment reflects WHO’s broader strategy to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with substance use disorders through evidence-based public health interventions.
The need for global support is critical. The WHO aims to address the social costs of substance use and improve the overall health of the population. By focusing on community integration and providing necessary resources, WHO hopes to create a safer and healthier environment for those affected by addiction.
Polio Eradication Efforts
Polio remains a significant health threat in Afghanistan. During her visit, Dr. Balkhy engaged with representatives from the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) to discuss strategies for eradicating the disease. She stressed the importance of renewed political commitment and collaboration to interrupt the transmission of the wild poliovirus.
Dr. Balkhy noted that Afghanistan’s commitment to stopping the current polio outbreak is vital. She stated, “These important country visits offer a unique opportunity for global and regional leaders to strengthen partnerships with national polio programmes.” The focus on polio eradication is not just a local issue; it requires a coordinated effort between Afghanistan and neighboring Pakistan, which shares the same epidemiological challenges.
Increased advocacy and awareness about vaccination are essential. Dr. Balkhy observed that many patients in the Infectious Diseases Hospital suffered from vaccine-preventable diseases. She called for greater efforts to enhance vaccination coverage and promote the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI). By improving access to vaccines, the WHO aims to protect vulnerable populations and reduce the incidence of preventable diseases.
Challenges in Healthcare Delivery
Afghanistan faces a humanitarian crisis that severely impacts healthcare delivery. The country has one of the highest levels of food insecurity globally, exacerbated by drought, displacement, and poverty. The number of people in need of humanitarian assistance has surged from 18.4 million in mid-2021 to approximately 23.7 million in 2024. Among these, around 17.9 million urgently require health assistance.
Dr. Balkhy’s discussions with UN agency representatives highlighted the need for a unified approach to tackle these challenges. She emphasized the importance of integrating health into development efforts. This strategy aims to create sustainable health outcomes for communities across Afghanistan.
Moreover, the restrictions on access to education for female health workers pose a significant barrier to maintaining health service delivery. Dr. Balkhy reiterated her commitment to advocating for female education and rights. Empowering women in healthcare is crucial for advancing Afghanistan’s health agenda and ensuring that health services are accessible to all.
The WHO’s ongoing efforts in Afghanistan are vital for addressing the country’s pressing health challenges. Dr. Hanan Balkhy’s visit underscores the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders to improve health outcomes. By focusing on substance use disorders, polio eradication, and the integration of health into broader development efforts, the WHO aims to create a healthier future for the people of Afghanistan. The commitment to supporting vulnerable populations and advocating for women’s rights in healthcare will play a crucial role in overcoming the significant obstacles faced by the nation.
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