Pandemics and outbreaks have differential impacts on women and men. From risk of exposure and biological susceptibility to infection to the social and economic implications, individuals’ experiences are likely to vary according to their biological and gender characteristics and... their interaction with other social determinants. Because of this, global and national strategic plans for COVID-19 preparedness and response must be grounded in strong gender analysis and must ensure meaningful participation of affected groups, including women and girls, in decision-making and implementation.
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Estimating the size of key affected populations (KAP) provides important data for planning and implementing an effective response to the HIV epidemic. In the Philippines, these KAP include males who have sex with males (MSM), female sex workers (FSW), and injecting drug users (IDU). Given the diffic...ulty in reaching these populations, as well as their high mobility, the process consequently entailed a specific methodology to directly estimate the size of KAP.
The national estimate of MSM was 531,500 or 2.2% (1.8%-3.2%) of males aged 15-49. Within this MSM estimate, figures for transgender women (TGW) and male transactional sex workers (MSW) were determined. The national estimate for TGW was 122,800 or about 0.50% (0.40%-0.75%) of males aged 15-49, and 23% of the MSM population. Meanwhile, MSW comprised 0.35% (0.29%-0.53%) of the male population aged 15-49 and 16% of the MSM population, giving a best estimate of 86,600.
The estimate of combined RFSW and FFSW was 66,100 or 0.28% (0.19%-0.40%) of females aged 15-49. Meanwhile, there are approximately 10,000 to 21,700 IDU or 0.04%-0.09% of males aged 15-49.
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Obesity and diabetes are affecting the peoples of the Americas at high and increasing rates. National surveys demonstrate that obesity is increasing in prevalence among all age groups; 7% to 12% of children under 5 years old and
one-fi fth of adolescents are obese, while rates of overweight and obe...sity among adults approach 60%. Obesity is the major modifi able risk factor for diabetes.
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The National Integrated Comprehensive Cholera Prevention and Control Plan (2017-2022) outlines Uganda's strategy to reduce cholera cases and mortality by 50% by 2022. The plan focuses on improving access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), strengthening disease surveillance, enhancing ca...se management, and implementing oral cholera vaccination (OCV) in high-risk areas. It emphasizes multi-sectoral collaboration, involving government agencies, NGOs, and local communities to ensure a sustainable response. Key interventions include community engagement, improved health services, and better outbreak preparedness, aiming for long-term cholera elimination in Uganda.
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