Conflicts , climate disasters , epidemics and mass displacement have left 305 million people in desperate need of humanitarian assistance , underscoring the urgency for coordinated action .

Announcing the appeal , WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted the scale of the challenge , noting that 42 ongoing emergencies - 17

classified as Grade 3 , the most critical - require immediate intervention .

Ghebreyesus remarked : “ Conflicts , outbreaks , climate-related disasters and other health emergencies are no longer isolated or occasional – they are relentless , overlapping and intensifying .”

He reiterated WHO ’ s commitment to empowering communities , fostering equity , and building longterm

resilience .

The HEA prioritises delivering essential health services to regions facing the most significant challenges , including Sudan , the Democratic Republic of the Congo , and the occupied Palestinian territory .

WHO ’ s initiatives span providing medical supplies , combating malnutrition , supporting maternal and child health , and preventing disease outbreaks through vaccination campaigns . Mental health support is also a cornerstone of these efforts , addressing trauma in crisis-hit communities .

Four critical issues - climate

change , conflict , displacement , and disease outbreaks - are driving these prolonged emergencies . Together , they deepen vulnerabilities and place millions at heightened risk , making health interventions a pressing need .

The Health Emergency Appeal is not just a request for funding ; it ’ s a call for global solidarity . WHO underscores the need to close the growing gap between urgent needs and available resources . By supporting this appeal , the global community can uphold health equity and ensure that no one is left behind , even in the most challenging circumstances .

THE Brunei Ministry of Health ( MOH ) has partnered with Borneo Genomics Innovation ( BGIB ), a venture of BGI Genomics , to launch the National Cervical Cancer Prevention and Control Program alongside the 2025 National Guideline . Officially introduced on January 15 2025 , the initiative aims to improve early detection and eliminate cervical cancer within Brunei .

Key figures attending the event included Minister of Health Dato Dr Hj Mohd Isham ; MOH ’ s Permanent Secretary Maswadi Hj Mohsin ; and BGI Genomics Chief Operating Officer Dr Du Yutao .

During the launch , the Minister acknowledged the program ’ s contributors and highlighted the government ’ s dedication to forming global partnerships to elevate healthcare standards for its citizens .

Du emphasised the benefits of integrating HPV DNA testing into the national program , stating : “ BGI Genomics ’ HPV DNA testing can help Brunei efficiently carry out large-scale HPV screening .

“ Looking ahead , we aspire to deepen our collaboration

with Brunei to explore innovations in broader public health fields and advance the health and well-being of the Bruneian people .”

The updated guideline underscores HPV DNA testing as a key tool for early detection , offering greater accuracy compared to traditional methods . Backed by the leadership of the royal family and MOH , the initiative aligns with the WHO ’ s global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030 .

It ensures comprehensive screening for women aged 25 to 65 , with self-sampling kits made available across 39 healthcare facilities in Brunei .

Beyond cervical cancer , discussions between Dr Isham and Du at the event touched on future projects , such as colorectal cancer screening , multi-omics research , and training for healthcare professionals .

This initiative also marks the evolution of BGI Genomics ’ Huo- Yan Lab , the first of its kind in Southeast Asia . It reflects Brunei ’ s commitment to advancing public health and building a healthier future for its people .

SHANGHAI has unveiled a new initiative encouraging the establishment of wholly foreign-owned hospitals in key areas , including its free trade zone , Lin-gang Special Area , Hongqiao business district , and downtown districts frequented by expatriates .

Announced on January 8 2025 , the plan aims to enhance healthcare diversity and align with national efforts to open up the medical sector .

Under the pilot programme , up to two foreign-owned hospitals will be allowed in each designated area . Eligible hospital types include general , specialised , and rehabilitation facilities , with exclusions for psychiatric , infectious disease , and traditional Chinese medicine centres .

According to the Shanghai Municipal Health Commission , foreign investors must showcase advanced healthcare management systems , international-standard medical technology , and services that complement existing local

capabilities .

While expatriate professionals from Hong Kong , Macao , and Taiwan may be employed , at least half the staff must be from mainland China .

Industry experts view the initiative as a game-changer . It is expected to attract foreign investment , introduce cuttingedge treatments , and provide more personalised care options for local and international patients .

However , high-risk medical procedures like organ transplants and experimental therapies remain prohibited . Meanwhile , the policy has also garnered support from prominent healthcare providers .

With this initiative , Shanghai seeks to create a dual healthcare system where public hospitals deliver essential services , and foreign-owned institutions offer high-end , specialised care . By integrating global expertise , the city aims to strengthen its healthcare sector and better meet the diverse needs of its population .