Peace and  Health

Peace and health. How does one affect the other? War attacks human health directly with violent injuries. But, there is also disease, famine, epidemics, and poverty that develop in the aftermath of war. One condition perpetuates the other as people begin to fight for food,
medicine, and survival.

Currently, diseases kill more of the world population than any conflict. Yet the World Bank found that the act of simple hand washing reduces some illnesses by 50%. But hand washing becomes a luxury in war torn countries with disrupted water supplies.

Good health is a fundamental issue for quality of life on our planet and in maintaining a peaceful society. We face an increase in the number of diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and child-hood illnesses due to the result of war. According to studies, 13 million people have died from HIV/AIDS, leaving 10 million children orphaned. Though war is responsible for much of the poor health on the planet, the 2002 World Health Organization report states that the USA is at the bottom in comparison with other high-income countries for infant mortality, life expectancy, and the number of uninsured.

How long can an unhealthy society stay at peace?

You can help change this condition by becoming educated and aware of the health needs we face in our world and in your own community. Consider volunteering or contributing to organizations, such as Doctors without Borders, or local clinics that have physical, mental, and social well-being as their goals.

To learn more about peaceful solutions, please visit www.peacefulblueplanet.org

To hear PSA on this topic, click here:  PSA on Health