["Tellus", the Earth as a patient: global health status--a diagnostic approach]

The article presents important health problems in developing countries from a doctor's perspective. The poor health of people in developing countries does not exist in a vacuum. It is closely interlinked with poverty, high fertility and environmental issues. In this context, dominating medical problems are the health problems of women in connection with pregnancy and childbearing, and the results of the vicious cycle of malnutrition and infection in children. After discussing some problems in developing countries, the author considers key health problems in societies in transition. This "doctor's perspective" must be balanced with the health concerns of community itself.