To Your Worldly Health

In a global environment, diseases that affect one part of the world soon affect the entire planet. It is crucial we recognize that the spread of infectious disease does not recognize national borders. We need to make a stronger commitment against diseases. This will not only win us greater international respect, it will, in the long run, save American lives and health.

According to the United Nations and the World Health Organization, we could control the spread of infectious diseases and treat every patient with infectious diseases in Africa for a fraction of what we have spent on the war in Iraq. At present, the epidemic in Africa is the greatest health threat in human history. In sections of Africa, HIV/AIDS and malaria have killed every adult, leaving villages with only the elderly and the young.

The Bush Administration believes subsidizing pharmaceutical companies to provide more medicine is the answer. Much more can be done. Further, the funds Bush has promised will not begin being applied for another year. People who are suffering need treatment now. We need to step in now and begin working on controlling the spread of these diseases immediately.

We can lead by example and encourage the international community to contribute to the rescue of people suffering from disease across the globe. Some countries need to be encouraged to focus on disease control and treatment within their own borders. Others can join in an international effort to combat diseases in Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, South America, and wherever serious outbreaks occur. If we do not act together in this global environment where people and goods flow easily around the world (and speed the spread of diseases), we will all suffer together.