The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) released its 2025 Annual Reports detailing technical cooperation achievements across the Americas, showcasing progress in disease elimination, health system strengthening, and emergency preparedness. According to PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, the initiatives presented “not only contribute to protecting the health and well-being of populations, but also support stability, security, and social development in the Americas.” The reports reflect efforts to expand access to essential technologies, treatments, and quality supplies through PAHO’s Regional Revolving Funds, with particular emphasis on digital health, primary health care, and mental health integration.
Significant regional achievements include progress toward the elimination of more than 30 priority diseases by 2030, with Suriname becoming the first country in the Amazon basin to be certified malaria-free. Mental health integration advanced in several countries, including Belize, Bolivia, and Curaçao, which strengthened services through regulatory frameworks and national plans. Maternal and neonatal health improved in the Bahamas, Brazil, and Guatemala, while multiple nations including Barbados, Cuba, Guyana, and Mexico made progress in preventing and controlling noncommunicable diseases and their risk factors.
Digital transformation of health systems accelerated in Colombia, Panama, and Trinidad and Tobago through system interoperability, digital literacy programs, and telehealth adoption. Primary health care strengthened in Chile, Costa Rica, and Paraguay with focus on social determinants and intercultural approaches. Several countries including Ecuador, El Salvador, Honduras, Jamaica, Nicaragua, and Peru advanced national capacities for emergency preparedness and response. Following hurricane Melissa, which damaged five hospitals and over 100 primary health centers in Jamaica, PAHO provided immediate support to ensure continuity of health services.
PAHO operates through 27 country offices in the region and maintains presence in 35 Member States and four Associate Members. Founded in 1902 as the world’s oldest international public health agency, PAHO serves as the specialised health agency of the Inter-American System and has functioned as the WHO Regional Office for the Americas since 1949.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://caribbeannewsglobal.com/pahos-2025-country-reports-highlight-the-regions-progress-in-health/