News
Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs)
Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are chronic medical conditions that are not spread from person to person. Unlike infectious diseases, which are caused by bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens, NCDs are typically long-lasting and result from a combination of genetic, physiological, environmental, and behavioural factors. NCDs are the leading cause of death worldwide and responsible for over 70% of global deaths each year. Over 80% of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries (WHO). Noncommunicable diseases pose a serious threat to global health because they are widespread, costly, largely preventable, and responsible for the majority of deaths worldwide. Reducing their impact requires coordinated efforts in prevention, early detection, and healthcare system strengthening, particularly in lower-income countries. The Toolbox on Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) can play a vital role in strengthening Global Healthcare systems by providing centralized, reliable, and up-to-date health information and resources like clinical guidelines, education material as well as tools for prevention and health promotion.
Issue Brief: Update on TB
Since 2000, global efforts to combat tuberculosis (TB) have saved 79 million lives. However, 10.8 million people fell ill with TB in 2023, and 1.25 million people died from the disease. World TB Day, observed annually on 24 March, highlights the urgent need to eradicate the world's deadliest infectious disease. This year's theme, 'Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver', emphasises the importance of hope, commitment and accountability in addressing the severe health, social and economic impacts of TB. Further information can be found in our TB toolbox or our new Issue Brief on TB
MEDBOX Annual Report 2024
Our Annual provides an overview of the most importan topics of last year. 2024 was marked by both planned advancements and rapid responsed to emerging glboal health challenges, underscoring our commitment to supporting healthcare professionals and organizations worldwide. Please find here our Annual Report for 2024
Caregiver Toolbox Video
Caregivers have a major impact on maintaining health services and improving the health status of the population. The daily work in nursing, however, requires good organization, a high sense of responsibility, and continuous education on the latest standards of care. MEDBOX produced a video that is specifically addressed to caregivers. It explains the structure and content of the Caregiver Toolbox, tells stories from caregivers around the world and shows how the online library can simplify their work. Please find the video.
Planetary Health Toolbox
"Planetary Health " works in an interdisciplinary way and deals with the interrelationships of human health, the economic and social system, and the natural habitat of our planet. The Planetary Health Toolbox includes topics such as One Health, Climate change, biodiversity, and impact on health. We have published two Issue Briefs one on "Climate Change & Heath" and one on "Planetary Health Basics" to raise awareness about heat waves as a result of climate change and its impact on health. Be curious and take a look at our introduction video and into the toolbox.
New Publications
The boy who beat the sandfly
Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDi) YouTube (2025)
Epidemiological data analysis for the early warning alert and response network (EWARN) in humanitarian emergencies
World Health Organisation (WHO) (2019)
Early Warning, Alert and Response System (EWARS)
World Health Organisation (WHO) (2025)
Strategic Plan of the Pan American Health Organization 2026–2031
Pan American Health Organization PAHO (2025)
Regional Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan for Ebola Virus Disease Outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Version 01, September 2025
World Health Organization WHO (2025)
Best Buys to Accelerate Disease Elimination in the Americas
Pan American Health Organization PAHO (2025)