The 2025 annual meeting of the American Public Health Association (APHA) in Washington, D.C., brought to the forefront the critical role of regional health security in the wake of global health crises. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), a leader in public health for the Americas, emphasized the interconnectedness of health, security, and socioeconomic stability during their participation in this pivotal gathering.
Background on PAHO: A Legacy of Health Security
Founded in 1902, PAHO was established as the International Sanitary Bureau to address public health issues across the Americas. The organization operates with the understanding that health is a collective responsibility that transcends national borders. PAHO’s philosophy is rooted in the idea that improving health in one nation ultimately benefits the entire region, a belief that has guided its work with 35 member states and beyond.
During the conference, PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa articulated a pressing message — governments must place the health of their populations at the core of national priorities. Stressing the notion that “health security starts when each country prioritizes its public’s health,” he underscored the need for cooperative efforts to enhance disease prevention, resilient health systems, and robust health workforce development.
Public Health as a Pillar of Security and Prosperity
Dr. Barbosa also highlighted the importance of public health in the broader context of national security and economic viability. He reminded attendees of the stark realities experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, where global economic output contracted by 3.5%. This highlighted an essential truth: health is intrinsically linked to security and prosperity. The interdependence between robust healthcare systems and economic resilience cannot be overstated; when public health falters, the repercussions are felt across economic and social dimensions.
Key Sessions and Topics Covered
At this year’s conference, PAHO experts participated in multiple technical sessions, each aimed at addressing critical public health issues:
Strengthening Health Security through Antimicrobial Resistance: This session focused on strategies for managing antibiotic resistance, examining outbreak responses, vaccine effectiveness, and gaps in emerging treatments.
Multi-Disease Elimination Initiative: PAHO’s regional initiative aimed at eliminating multiple communicable diseases by 2030 was discussed, highlighting the importance of holistic health strategies.
Transforming Public Health through AI: As artificial intelligence becomes integrated into public health systems, this session explored its potential and implications on health delivery and management.
- Enhancing Primary Health through Strategic Workforce Planning: This topic addressed how educating and planning the health workforce can improve primary health services across the Americas.
PAHO also presented a film festival showcasing narratives from various countries, including a film from El Salvador focusing on community health promotion, emphasizing grassroots efforts in public health.
Interactive Engagement and Resources
The PAHO presence at APHA was marked by two interactive exhibition booths, where participants could explore various dimensions of health security, such as antimicrobial resistance and emergency preparedness. The availability of technical tools and resources allowed for greater engagement, underscoring PAHO’s mission to disseminate knowledge and promote collaborative efforts.
A Continuing Partnership with APHA
The collaborative relationship between PAHO and APHA has flourished over the past decade, producing impactful initiatives such as National Public Health Week and World Health Day celebrations. Joint efforts have included the production of bilingual scientific publications, particularly the Spanish-language edition of critical health manuals, enhancing accessibility to vital information across diverse populations.
Dr. Barbosa emphasized the significance of this partnership, noting that shared experiences from PAHO’s endeavors across the Americas can inform and strengthen public health strategies in the United States. The notion of collective learning, adaptation, and advancement resonates strongly within the framework of regional health security.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
As PAHO concludes its participation at the 2025 APHA meeting, the call for stronger regional health security and cooperation remains urgent. With the specter of emerging health threats and the persistent challenges of established diseases, the need for a united approach to public health is clearer than ever. Governments must recognize that the health of their citizens directly influences their national stability and economic growth.
Moving forward, fostering a culture of collaboration among nations, bolstering public health investments, and prioritizing health in policy-making will be essential components in safeguarding the well-being of populations throughout the Americas. Dr. Barbosa’s message reinforces the belief that true health security depends not only on individual nations but also on collective resilience and shared leadership in public health.
This PAHO initiative is a clarion call to all stakeholders involved in public health: the time to act is now. As we reflect on the lessons learned from past health emergencies, let us commit to placing public health at the forefront of our priorities, ensuring a healthier future for all.
