At the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78), Member States unanimously adopted the Integrated Lung Health Resolution. This is the first comprehensive commitment by the World Health Organization (WHO) to cover a broad spectrum of respiratory diseases.

The resolution emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to lung diseases, encompassing both communicable and non-communicable diseases – from tuberculosis and pneumonia, through COPD and asthma, to lung cancer.

The resolution identifies four main pillars for an effective lung health strategy:

  • prevention (including vaccinations, combating air pollution, tobacco control),
  • diagnostics and early detection of respiratory diseases,
  • access to treatment and medical technologies,
  • strengthening primary health care with lung health as an integral part of it.

The adopted document calls on WHO member states to:

  • create a national health policy framework integrated around lung health,
  • implement effective prevention and treatment pathways within primary health care,
  • develop clinical guidelines, including for COPD and lung cancer,
  • improve access to essential medicines and therapeutic technologies. At the same time, the resolution obliges

WHO to prepare a report by 2027, containing specific recommendations for member states on the implementation of an integrated lung health policy.

https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/380840/9789240107526-eng.pdf?sequence=1

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