Satellite session
Powering up communities
14 February
16:00-17:15
AD 10
Guy Marks
The Union
Guy Fones
WHO
Leslie Rae Ferat
Global Alliance for Tobacco Control
Alison Cox
NCDA
Organised by


Priority interventions for reducing the burden of chronic lung disease and other tobacco-related health problems
This session addresses the critical challenges in managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, particularly in low and middle-income countries (LMICs), where access to essential medications remains limited. Barriers like inadequate registration, high costs, and lack of quality assurance hinder patient care, often forcing reliance on inferior treatments. A comprehensive approach is proposed, including updating WHO guidelines, promoting bulk purchasing of medications, and training healthcare providers
Second part of the session will focus on the unique challenges African nations face regarding tobacco use and rising non-communicable disease (NCD) rates. With insights from experts we will explore the critical need for effective tobacco control measures. The discussion will highlight advocacy opportunities within the UN High-Level Meeting (UNHLM) agenda, emphasizing the importance of implementing the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), integrating NCD strategies, and advocating for fiscal measures like tobacco taxation. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the intersection between tobacco control and health outcomes in Africa.