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Published on: September 27, 2024
Global alliance against chronic respiratory diseases
J Bousquet1, R Dahl, N Khaltaev
1Hôpital Arnaude de Villeneuve, CHUMontpellier, Montpellier, France.
Chronic respiratory diseases affect millions globally, particularly in developing nations, yet receive insufficient attention. The World Health Organization (WHO) established the Global Alliance against Chronic Respiratory Diseases (GARD) to prioritize prevention and control.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Public Health
- Global Health Initiatives
Background:
- Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) like asthma and COPD affect hundreds of millions worldwide, disproportionately impacting developing countries.
- The prevalence of CRDs is increasing, posing a significant global health burden.
- Despite the clear costs of inaction, CRDs and their risk factors are under-addressed by healthcare systems, policymakers, and the public.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the insufficient attention and resources allocated to chronic respiratory diseases globally.
- To establish a coordinated international effort for the prevention and control of CRDs.
- To improve global lung health outcomes tailored to local needs.
Main Methods:
- Formation of the WHO Global Alliance against Chronic Respiratory Diseases (GARD) as a voluntary alliance.
- Adoption of a stepwise approach for GARD's development and action.
- Planning steps include: estimating population needs, advocating for action, formulating policy, and identifying implementation strategies.
Main Results:
- GARD was established by the World Health Organization (WHO) in response to the Fifty-Third World Health Assembly's call for prioritizing chronic diseases.
- GARD unites diverse organizations towards a shared vision of enhancing global lung health.
- A structured, three-step planning process guides GARD's initiatives.
Conclusions:
- Chronic respiratory diseases represent a major global health challenge requiring urgent and prioritized action.
- The WHO Global Alliance against Chronic Respiratory Diseases (GARD) provides a framework for international collaboration and targeted interventions.
- Effective control and prevention strategies for CRDs necessitate a comprehensive, stepwise approach addressing population needs, policy, and implementation.
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