Technologies move forward
From clinical trials in Africa to a congressional hearing in Washington, DC, PATH went where the need was greatest. Our milestones from July, August, and September show how we move health solutions into use.
July
Congressional briefing showcases solutions
PATH partners with US policymakers to host a Congressional briefing to explore ways to reach women and children with innovative health technologies. Featured tools from PATH, such as an antishock suit to control a woman’s bleeding after childbirth and a solar-powered refrigerator for vaccine storage, are affordable, appropriate, and accessible for people in need worldwide.
A pot for safer water
PATH’s Safe Water Project completes the design of an updated water filter—the Hydrologic ceramic water pot—that is later distributed in the Cambodian marketplace.
August
Building evidence to halt HIV transmission
In Uganda, the new Arise program aims to prevent HIV infections by addressing the unmet need for contraception among HIV-positive women. PATH and our partners are rigorously evaluating how averting unwanted pregnancies and increasing the “dual method” use of contraceptives—for example, using condoms along with another contraceptive—can help stop HIV transmission cost-effectively.
Power to South Africa’s midwives
The Midwives AIDS Alliance, hosted by PATH, helps midwives understand their vital role in protecting the lives of South African women and children, especially in the face of HIV and AIDS. The Alliance holds workshops to teach dozens of midwives how to influence the direction of health care in their country.
September
One million tested for HIV
The one millionth person takes part in voluntary, provider-initiated, or home-based HIV testing and counseling through APHIA II Western. PATH leads this four-year US Agency for International Development project that promotes health among the residents of Kenya’s Western Province. Over four years, the project provided HIV testing and counseling to nearly 1.46 million people, helping them understand how to prevent HIV transmission and seek treatment.
Ultra Rice® for lunch
The world’s largest school lunch program—the Government of India’s Midday Meal Programme—continues to introduce Ultra Rice, a rice-fortification technology developed by PATH. Mixed with local rice, micronutrient-enriched grains manufactured with the Ultra Rice technology help bridge dietary gaps and prevent malnutrition. In December, the fortified rice reaches more than 185,000 schoolchildren in Rajasthan each school day. Meanwhile, similar pilot projects are under way in Brazil, reaching more than 50,000 children.
Influenza early warning
A sentinel influenza surveillance system, developed by the Government of Ukraine with PATH’s assistance, comes fully online. The system includes 18 hospitals and clinics in four sentinel sites and provides influenza program managers with high-quality information essential for responding to outbreaks.
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Photos: PATH, Wendy Stone, PATH/Satvir Malhotra, PATH/Mike Wang.