Malta has been selected to host a WHO meeting in November with the theme of ‘Health Work Force Planning’. This announcement was made in Cyprus during the ‘Tenth High-level Meeting of the Small Countries Initiative: converging on small-country health priorities’, attended by Minister for Health and Active Ageing Jo Etienne Abela.

The meeting in Cyprus is primarily focused on two key areas: cancer, including population screening programs and pediatric cancer, as well as health and climate change, including the impact and experiences of small countries.

During his remarks, Minister Jo Etienne Abela addressed cancer prevention and treatment, stressing the importance of raising awareness about cancer and encouraging more individuals to undergo cancer screenings for early detection.

The Minister also highlighted Malta’s efforts to combat obesity.

Regarding the future of cancer care, he discussed how our country continues to delve into the connection between genetics and artificial intelligence to facilitate personalized treatment.

Minister Abela also spoke about the challenges faced by small countries in procuring medicines, citing language barriers and geopolitical issues impacting pricing and logistics.

He emphasized Malta’s commitment to increased collaboration and solidarity in this area. The WHO agreed with Minister Abela on this and stressed that acquiring equipment and technology should also be a priority.

On the topic of climate change effects, Minister Abela mentioned Malta’s government entities having a climate change action plan and reaffirmed the government’s dedication to taking necessary steps to combat this global issue.

“I eagerly anticipate November, when our country, in partnership with the WHO, will host a significant meeting with several countries, where the theme of Health Work Force Planning will be discussed,” concluded Minister Abela.

#MaltaDaily