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Science Friday

What Does Dismantling USAID Mean For Global Health?

Mar 10, 2025
Dr. Atul Gawande, a surgeon and former head of global health at USAID, and Dr. Salim Abdool Karim, an epidemiologist and director at the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa, delve into the fallout from the U.S. dismantling USAID. They discuss the devastating effects of funding cuts on vital health initiatives battling diseases like HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis. The conversation highlights the ethical dilemmas faced by clinical trial participants and the geopolitical ramifications of U.S. withdrawal from global health leadership, especially as rivals like China rise.
18:25

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Quick takeaways

  • Recent cuts to USAID jeopardize vital global health initiatives, leaving millions without necessary treatments and exacerbating existing health crises.
  • The U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization significantly hinders global health leadership, allowing competing nations to strengthen their influence and endanger public health.

Deep dives

Impact of USAID Funding Cuts on Global Health

Recent funding cuts to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) have severe implications for global health initiatives. The termination of critical programs includes the president's malaria initiative, tuberculosis control, and significant HIV efforts that support millions of lives, particularly children. The abrupt withdrawal from these initiatives leaves countless patients without necessary treatments, jeopardizing their health and survival. Additionally, the freeze on funding has affected humanitarian assistance, stunting progress in conflict areas and exacerbating global health crises.

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