One health - one future: The new integrated approach to health and sustainability. You've heard the saying "we're all connected," right? In the world of health, this isn't just a feel-good phrase; it's a fundamental concept. This is where the idea of "One Health" comes into play. But what is One Health? Let's see this intriguing concept together.Concept of One Health
As old as the hills and still as relevant, the idea of One Health has been with us since ancient times. It got its contemporary push in the early 2000s, driven by global concerns over diseases like SARS and avian flu. One Health is the collaborative effort of multiple disciplines working to achieve optimal health for people, animals, and our environment. It’s about recognizing that the health of people is connected to the health of animals and the environment. It's as intertwined as the threads of a well-woven basket.
Human health and animal health
Just like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle, humans, animals, and the environment are interconnected. But how, you ask? Think about it. Our fluffy friends, livestock, wildlife, they all interact with us in some way. We share our homes with them, our farms, and our communities. They can affect our health, and we can affect theirs, through diseases shared between us.
Environment’s influence on health
Ever feel like taking a deep breath of fresh air on a hike? That's the environment benefiting your health right there! But, on the flip side, pollution, climate change, and habitat loss can negatively affect our health and that of animals. It's a delicate balance, really.
Impact and challenges of One Health
Now that we understand the concept of One Health, let's take a peek into its impact and challenges.
One Health and zoonotic diseases
The significance of One Health shines when it comes to zoonotic diseases—diseases that can spread from animals to humans. Think about pandemics like H1N1 or COVID-19; a One Health approach can help us prepare for and prevent these crises.
One Health and antimicrobial resistance
Antimicrobial resistance is a ticking time bomb, and One Health is the hero we need. By looking at how antibiotics are used in people, animals, and the environment, we can combat this global threat.
Barriers to implementing the approach
As with any approach, One Health comes with its challenges. From overcoming disciplinary silos to dealing with the complex politics of health governance, there's no shortage of hurdles. But then again, what’s progress without a few obstacles?
Future of One Health
The One Health approach has recently seen significant advancements with the launch of the One Health Joint Plan of Action . This initiative was unveiled by a consortium referred to as the Quadripartite, which consists of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). The plan aims to foster an integrative framework that enhances our collective ability to prevent, predict, detect, and respond to health threats, ultimately striving to improve the health of humans, animals, plants, and the environment, and contribute to sustainable development.
The Joint Plan of Action was developed through a participatory process and outlines a range of activities designed to strengthen collaboration, communication, capacity building, and coordination across all sectors responsible for addressing health concerns at the interface of humans, animals, plants, and the environment.
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Key areas in the plan of action 2022-2026
This five-year plan emphasizes support and expansion of capacities in six key area s:
- One Health capacities for health systems
- Emerging and re-emerging zoonotic epidemics
- Endemic zoonotic, neglected tropical and vector-borne diseases
- Food safety risks
- Antimicrobial resistance
- The environment
Informed by evidence, best practices, and existing guidance, the plan advances One Health at global, regional, and national levels, including the development of forthcoming implementation guidance for countries, international partners, and non-state actors, such as civil society organizations, professional associations, academia, and research institutions.
The plan outlines operational objectives which include promoting multinational, multi-sector, multidisciplinary collaboration, learning, and knowledge exchange, along with fostering values of cooperation, shared responsibility, multi-sectoral action, partnership, gender equity, and inclusiveness. Finally, mechanisms for coordinated financing are being developed to support the plan's implementation, with the Quadripartite joining forces to leverage needed resources to address critical health threats and promote health for people, animals, plants, and the environment.
One Health is more than just a concept —it's a call to action. It's about recognizing our interconnectivity and using that knowledge for the betterment of health everywhere. Together, we can build a healthier, more sustainable future for all . So, are you ready to join the One Health movement?
Global initiatives for One Health
Across the globe, One Health is gaining recognition. From the WHO to the CDC, major health organizations are implementing One Health in their policies and practices. This paints a hopeful picture for our future. How to implement One Health in your Community? Starting in your own backyard is a great step. From using antibiotics responsibly to taking care of the environment , every little helps. After all, if not you, then who? With the rise of tech, data collection and analysis have improved leaps and bounds. This technology can greatly aid in tracking disease spread , understanding health patterns , and implementing One Health initiatives.
Past Events in 2023
- World Congress on Infectious Diseases, June 21, Casamassella, Italy
- International Conference on Bioactive Food Components and Ingredients for Health, July 15, Bali, Indonesia
- International Conference on One Health, July 19, Paris, France
- International Conference on Telephone Triage Nursing and Telehealth, August 5, Montreal, Canada
- Global Public Health Conference, August 24, Singapore, Singapore
- International Conference on Bioactive Food Components for Health, September 20, Toronto, Canada
- International Conference on Bioactive Food Components and Health-Promoting Food Ingredients, September 20, Toronto, Canada
One Health FAQs
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- How does One Health affect me? One Health affects us all! From the air you breathe to the food you eat, it's all connected. By ensuring a healthier environment and animals, we ensure a healthier you.
- What can I do to support the One Health initiative? Small steps make a big difference. From responsible antibiotic use to supporting sustainable practices, each of us can contribute to this global initiative.
- Why is One Health important in dealing with pandemics? One Health is crucial because many pandemics originate from animals (zoonotic diseases). This approach helps us understand, prepare for, and prevent these occurrences.
- Are there organizations that support the One Health approach? Yes, many global organizations like the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Food and Agriculture Organization support and promote the One Health approach.