12% of the world's smokers live in Latin America and the Caribbean. Every year, tobacco use contributes to the growth of non-communicable diseases and causes one million deaths in the region. So if tobacco is the most preventable cause of death, how can countries get their populations to stop smoking? … [Read more...] about Time to say goodbye to tobacco
Public health and nutrition
61,000 parents share how school and ECD Center closings take a toll on their mental health
With the sudden halt to face-to-face education, parents across the world juggle distance and hybrid education models. In addition to being parents and often full-time employees, overnight they suddenly also became full time educators and classroom managers. The additional burden on parents comes at the cost of decreased mental health. In Latin America, the ministries of … [Read more...] about 61,000 parents share how school and ECD Center closings take a toll on their mental health
The COVID-19 vaccine: when, how, and at what price?
It is no news that we are all looking forward to the COVID-19 vaccine. But to believe that finding one - or several - vaccines will be the panacea and immediately end the pandemic is a mistake. Three fundamental questions explain why the vaccine does not provide an immediate solution. The first and most obvious, the date: when will the vaccine be ready? The second question is … [Read more...] about The COVID-19 vaccine: when, how, and at what price?
It’s hand-washing time! How behavioral economics could mitigate the spread of coronavirus
With nearly 210,000 confirmed cases and 8,650 deaths in at least 166 countries or territories, COVID-19, also known as coronavirus, has become the latest threat both to human health and the global economy. With no vaccine against the disease to date, prevention looks like the only available option to mitigate the spread of the virus. Washing hands frequently, covering nose and … [Read more...] about It’s hand-washing time! How behavioral economics could mitigate the spread of coronavirus
10 Take-Aways on How the Region Can Improve Health Spending Efficiency
Latin America and the Caribbean have experienced important improvements in key health indicators over the last two decades. For example, since 2000 average life expectancy rose from 71 to 75 years of age, and mortality rates for children under five fell by 44%. The region currently faces the challenge of maintaining these achievements and making further progress in health … [Read more...] about 10 Take-Aways on How the Region Can Improve Health Spending Efficiency