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Key Points

A new study reveals US aid cuts could lead to 14 million deaths in five years, reversing global health progress. USAID programs previously prevented 92 million deaths from diseases like AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis. Afghanistan has already lost 40% of US health funding, forcing 400 clinics to close. Health experts warn these cuts will devastate vulnerable regions and undo decades of medical advancements.

Key Points: US Aid Cuts Could Kill 14 Million in Next 5 Years

  • USAID programs prevented 92 million deaths in 133 countries
  • Cuts risk 25 million AIDS and polio deaths returning
  • Afghanistan faces 40% aid drop, 400 clinics closed
  • Experts urge US to reassess global health priorities
2 min read

14 million lives at risk as US slashes global health aid over next 5 years

Study warns US global health funding cuts may reverse decades of progress, risking 14 million lives in vulnerable regions by 2028.

"These cuts threaten to undo decades of progress in combating preventable diseases worldwide. – Khaama Press"

Washington, DC, July 1

A recent study warned that US aid cuts could result in over 14 million deaths within the next five years, reversing global health progress, Khaama Press reported.

A recent study has revealed that over 14 million people could lose their lives within the next five years due to cuts in US financial aid.

According to US media reports on Monday, June 30, these reductions in funding for US Agency for International Development (USAID)-funded programs could reverse the progress made in global health, where nearly 92 million deaths have been prevented across 133 countries.

The study highlights that USAID programs have been vital in preventing more than 25 million deaths from AIDS and polio, around 11 million deaths from diarrheal diseases, 8 million deaths from malaria, and nearly 5 million deaths from tuberculosis. The reduction in funding threatens to undo these gains, particularly in the most vulnerable regions.

In March, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that 83% of USAID's programs would be cut, citing that these programs did not align with US national interests.

This announcement has raised alarm among health experts and humanitarian organizations, as these programs are essential in combating preventable diseases across the globe, Khaama Press stated.

An analysis conducted by a team of researchers from Spain, Brazil, and the US estimated the impact of these cuts, predicting millions of additional deaths in areas dependent on US aid for disease prevention and healthcare services. This reduction in funding could have far-reaching consequences, particularly in regions with fragile health systems.

In Afghanistan, the consequences are already being felt. US aid has decreased by 40%, and around 400 health centers have closed due to funding shortages. This has significantly reduced access to vital healthcare services, leaving millions vulnerable to preventable diseases, Khaama Press reported.

The dramatic reduction in US foreign aid presents a serious threat to global health, reversing decades of progress in combating preventable diseases. Immediate steps must be taken to address the consequences of these cuts and mitigate the impact on public health worldwide.

For the global health community, it is essential for the US to reassess its stance on foreign aid. Continued investment in global health and humanitarian programs is vital to prevent further loss of life and ensure that progress in improving healthcare access is not undone.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Maybe this is wake-up call for developing nations to become self-reliant in healthcare. India's Ayushman Bharat is good example - we must build our own systems rather than depend on foreign aid.
D
David E
As someone working in global health, these cuts are devastating. The polio eradication program in India was hugely successful thanks to international cooperation. Going backward now would be tragic.
A
Ananya R
While I understand US wants to focus on domestic issues, global health IS their interest! Diseases don't respect borders. COVID showed us this clearly. Cutting aid will come back to haunt them.
V
Vikram M
India should step up and take leadership role in global health initiatives. We have the pharmaceutical capacity and medical expertise to help other developing nations during this crisis.
S
Sarah B
The article mentions Afghanistan's situation - this is exactly why aid shouldn't be politicized. Ordinary people suffer when healthcare becomes bargaining chip in international relations.
K
Karthik V
Respectfully, the article could have explored alternatives - maybe BRICS nations can create new health funding mechanisms? The world can't depend on one country's generosity forever.

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