Connecting for Health – January 2026


PAHO’s progress in 2025: Protecting health for all

Throughout 2025, PAHO supported the countries of the Americas in responding to emergencies, eliminating diseases, and advancing health self-reliance. The year was marked by significant challenges, but also by encouraging results made possible through regional cooperation and the commitment of Member States and partners.

WHO validates Brazil for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV
The World Health Organization (WHO) has validated Brazil for the elimination of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of HIV, making it the most populous country in the Americas to achieve this historic milestone. This accomplishment reflects Brazil’s long-standing commitment to universal and free access to health services through its Unified Health System (SUS), anchored in a strong primary health-care system and respect for human rights.

PAHO launches Regional Alliance to accelerate HIV elimination in the Americas
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) launched the Regional Alliance for HIV Elimination in the Americas, a platform that brings together governments, communities, international agencies, academia, and the private sector to advance measures to reduce new infections and AIDS-related deaths.

PAHO supports Jamaica in the immediate deployment of mental health and psychosocial services after Hurricane Melissa
Hurricane Melissa has severely damaged health service infrastructure and disrupted life in Jamaica. In the aftermath, thousands of displaced families, health workers, children, and people living with chronic illnesses continue to deal with the storm’s psychosocial impacts: including acute stress, grief, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion.

PAHO launches roadmap to improve blood pressure control and save lives
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has launched the new HEARTS Quality Framework, a practical guide published in The Lancet Regional Health – Americas, which countries can immediately use to enhance hypertension and cardiovascular risk management, prevent heart attacks and strokes, and deliver better care through primary health care within their communities..
Multimedia

Let’s Talk About Health – Ep. 19: Lower Back Pain
With over 600 million people affected by back pain, this condition has become the leading cause of disability worldwide. In this episode of Let’s Talk About Health, we speak with Gustavo Pérez Reina, disability and rehabilitation advisor at the PAHO, and explore the causes behind this ailment, as well as practical strategies to restore quality of life and prevent future discomfort.

Community participation and clinical response: the strategy that helped reduce dengue cases in five countries
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Community participation and clinical response: the strategy that helped reduce dengue cases in five countries
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