What role does WHO play in the fight against diseases?

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that plays a crucial role in global health by addressing both communicable and non-communicable diseases. This comprehensive approach enables WHO to formulate health policies, set global health standards, and coordinate international health initiatives that target various health issues worldwide.

By managing communicable diseases—such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and emerging infectious diseases—and non-communicable diseases—such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes—WHO helps countries implement strategies for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. This holistic mandate supports the goal of improving overall health and providing equitable access to healthcare services.

The other options narrow the focus of WHO too much, either by implying it only targets one category of diseases or by claiming it only funds disease prevention without acknowledging its broader strategic role in both types of health challenges. Recognizing the WHO’s comprehensive approach illustrates the complexity and interconnectivity of global health threats and responses.