Leaving the WHO

The recent decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) has left many parents feeling concerned and uncertain. Headlines like these can feel overwhelming– especially when it’s not immediately clear how this change could affect children and families. As a pediatrician and parent, I understand these worries and want to share what this decision might mean in a way that feels less daunting and more practical.

The WHO isn’t just a name in the news– it’s a cornerstone of global health. This organization leads critical efforts to detect and respond to disease outbreaks, ensure vaccine access, set international health standards, and support research that improves care worldwide. Its work directly supports many areas of public health, including programs that combat vaccine-preventable illnesses, improve maternal and child health, and respond to emerging health threats that could impact children.

By understanding what this decision entails and its potential ripple effects, we can better grasp how it might share the care and resources families rely on in the U.S. and around the world.

The Impact on the U.S.: Families, health, and costs

• Loss of collaboration on child health: The WHO coordinates efforts to prevent and manage diseases, providing vital data and support that help programs like childhood immunizations and maternal health initiatives run smoothly. Without this collaboration, these efforts might face delays or require additional resources.

• Programs that matter to families: WHO partnerships have supported progress in areas like breastfeeding education, disease outbreaks that affect children, and vaccine access. These initiatives have a ripple effect on family health. Losing these resources could slow progress, creating challenges for parents who count on consistent guidance and support.

• Increased public health costs: Programs like vaccine distribution, supported by the WHO, allow for shared costs and resources. Without this partnership, the U.S. may face higher expenses to independently maintain these efforts. However, it’s important to note that the U.S. has the capacity to adapt and continue supporting public health programs, even if it comes with additional planning and budgeting challenges. 

• Potential cost savings and autonomy: By stepping away from the WHO, the U.S. could redirect funds previously allocated to the organization into its own domestic health programs. This might allow for tailored initiatives that meet the specific needs of U.S. families more directly.

Why the WHO matters globally (and at home)

The WHO is a vital force for international health collaboration. It connects countries to fight disease, create vaccines, and develop early warning systems for outbreaks. It works to protect families around the world, including here in the U.S. However, without the U.S., this network weakens, leading to potential challenges:

• Pandemic preparedness: efforts to detect and respond to outbreaks rely on a united global front. A fragmented response increases risks, especially for children who are vulnerable to diseases like measles and polio.

• Innovation in health: The WHO facilitates global research that drives advancements in vaccines, treatments, and pediatric care. Withdrawal could slow progress in treatments and vaccines that benefit children and families worldwide.

Why this matters to parents

Global health isn’t just an abstract concept– it directly impacts the safety and well-being of families everywhere. The WHO’s work integrates into many aspects of daily life, ensuring resources and safeguards that families depend on. Here are some examples:

• Vaccines: The WHO leads global efforts to eradicate diseases like polio and measles. Their guidance and funding ensure vaccines are accessible and effective worldwide. Without U.S. support, these efforts could be delayed, increasing the risk of preventable illnesses resurfacing.

• Food and nutrition safety: The WHO sets international standards for food and safety, addressing everything from reducing harmful additives to improving access to nutritious foods. These policies influence the safety of what goes on your family’s plate.

By stepping back from the WHO, the U.S. may need to independently navigate challenges in these areas. While the U.S. can handle these challenges on its own, working together with other countries offers opportunities to find faster, better solutions.

At the same time, the decision to leave the WHO does open the door for the U.S. to explore new opportunities in health policy, focusing on strategies that address its specific needs. Balancing independence with collaboration will be key to ensuring continued progress in public health. However, this is only effective if we continue to prioritize public health and evidence-based guidance, which may not currently be receiving the attention it requires.

The big picture for families

Leaving the WHO may seem like a decision focused on independence, but it's important to remember how interconnected global health is with our everyday lives. Health challenges in one part of the world can affect families everywhere, which is why collaboration is so essential.

For families in the U.S., this decision could mean changes in how diseases are tracked, how vaccines are distributed, and how public health emergencies are managed. While the U.S. has systems in place (which hopefully continue), global efforts like those led by the WHO allow countries to share knowledge, resources, and solutions that benefit everyone.

History shows us that working together is often the best way forward. Whether in global health or parenting, trying to do it all alone is rarely sustainable. Parenting teaches us that support systems– whether they’re a partner, trusted friend, or your village– make us stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to navigate challenges. The same holds true for health on a global scale. Collaboration isn't just helpful– it’s necessary for tackling the big issues that impact us all.

Ultimately, stepping away from the WHO introduces challenges, but it also highlights the importance of continued progress in public health. By staying informed and advocating for collaboration, parents can help shape a healthier, safer future for our children.

Finding hope in what feels like a dark time for public health and evidence-based information

While this decision may feel concerning, it is important to remember the resilience of parents, healthcare providers, and communities. By staying informed, proactive, and united, we can continue to advocate for the well-being of our families and communities. This is an opportunity to engage in meaningful action and teach our children about the power of collective care.

You are not alone in navigating these changes. Together, we can find hope and strength in our shared commitment to health and wellness. I will continue using this newsletter and our community to keep you informed about any changes that impact our lives and the health of our children. Together, we can create a brighter, healthier future for all.

On The Podcast

Unresolved childhood wounds can influence your reactions and relationships with your children. By breaking generational cycles and cultivating self-awareness, parents can create more empathetic, connected and supportive environments for their families.

This week, I welcome back Bryana Kappadakunnel, author of the book Parent Yourself First, to discuss how to combine self-compassion, accountability and intentional parenting to nurture both the child within and the child in front of you.

She joins me to discuss:

• How addressing personal past wounds allows you to be a more present and empathetic parent

• The need to stop unhealthy family patterns and break generational cycles

• Practical strategies to nurture emotional connection and raise self-aware children

On YouTube

Boost your toddler’s language with expert tips, milestones, and fun ways to spark speech. This video includes:

• Communication vs. language

• Key milestones from 12-24 months

• How many words should my child say?

• How to support speech development

• Milestones to monitor

Ask Dr. Mona

An opportunity for YOU to ask Dr. Mona your parenting questions!

Dr. Mona will answer these questions in a future Sunday Morning Q&A email. Chances are if you have a parenting concern or question, another parent can relate. So let's figure this out together!