World Health Organization (WHO)

Definition

The World Health Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. It aims to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable.

Analogy

Think of WHO as a global school nurse. Just like how a school nurse looks after all students' health in a school, WHO looks after the health of people worldwide.

Related terms

Public Health: This refers to the science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting human health through organized efforts and informed choices of society, organizations, communities, and individuals.

Epidemiology: This is the study and analysis of the distribution (who, when, and where), patterns and determinants of health and disease conditions in defined populations.

Pandemic: A pandemic is an epidemic occurring on a scale that crosses international boundaries, usually affecting a large number of people.