WHO, Climate Impact, and Horse Therapy for Well-being

Why in the news?

The WHO launched a program providing free cancer medicines to children in low-income nations. A study linked air pollution to prolonged pregnancies. Singapore introduced horse therapy to improve senior citizens’ physical and mental health.

WHO, Climate Impact, and Horse Therapy for Well-being

WHO’s Free Cancer Medicine Program for Children:

  • The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a platform to provide cost-free cancer medicines for children in low- and middle-income countries.
  • Mongolia and Uzbekistan are the first recipients, with upcoming shipments to Ecuador, Jordan, Nepal, and Zambia.
  • The initiative aims to reach 5,000 children in at least 30 hospitals this year.
  • WHO highlights that childhood cancer survival rates are below 30% in poorer countries, compared to 80% in wealthier nations.

Air Pollution & Extreme Temperatures May Delay Pregnancy

  • A study analyzing 400,000 births in Australia links air pollution and extreme temperatures to delayed deliveries.
  • Prolonged pregnancies can lead to stillbirths, birth complications, and behavioral issues.
  • Previous research focused on premature births, but this study examines the risks of late deliveries.
  • Findings published in Urban Climate suggest that climate factors significantly impact maternal health.

Singapore’s Horse Therapy for Senior Citizens

  • Singapore introduces ‘Haydays with Horses’, a two-year therapy program using miniature horses for elderly care.
  • Aims to improve physical, cognitive, and psychological well-being of seniors.
  • Participants interact with miniature and retired horses through grooming and walking sessions.
  • Funded by Temasek, the initiative provides free therapy sessions at active-ageing centers across Singapore.
  • The program addresses challenges posed by Singapore’s ageing population.