Protecting and improving health through policies and actions in other sectors 

The solution to many health problems lies in addressing their root causes, many of which are outside the direct control of the health sector. For example, adverse living conditions expose poor people to health risks from poor housing, inadequate and unsafe water, polluting fuel sources, and natural and industrial disasters. This requires new levels of cooperation between health and various development sectors. Integrated approaches taking into account the complexity and cross-sectoral nature of health and development issues are needed.

Our Goal

Increase the understanding of the linkage between cross-sectoral policies and practices and health and influence policy development in these sectors to take into account public health interests and objectives - particularly those that will improve the health of the poorest.

What have we achieved so far? 

• cross-cutting initiative on household energy, fuel poverty and indoor environment, including a workshop with USAID and a number of background papers and case studies 
• contribution to the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) 
• participation in the Commission for Sustainable Development (CSD) 

What is in the pipeline? 

• guidelines for health impact assessment, including policy and legal frameworks and case studies of application 
• contribution to the World Summit of Sustainable Development, including development of a WHO strategy and position papers 
• guidance material on cross-sectoral policies for use in countries interventions, planning and decision-making processes