United Nations

The United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR) reports on the exposure of people to radiation worldwide. UNSCEAR's surveys on medical and occupational exposures contribute to safer medical and working practices.

Space science, technology and related applications can offer innovative solutions to address various health challenges on Earth. The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) connects health professionals worldwide with space technologies to help control the spread of infectious diseases and improve public health services.

The UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is working on an innovative initiative to revolutionize prosthetic manufacturing and enhance job opportunities in Ukraine. Using 3d printing technology, prosthetics can be produced which can significantly impact on the lives of those who need them.

Medicines containing narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances are essential for pain relief, anaesthesia as well as treatment of mental health and neurological conditions but may be misused, posing a risk to health and wellbeing. The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) works with governments to ensure adequate supplies for patients, including during emergencies. INCB also manages a system for licit international trade in these substances and precursor chemicals.

Six hospitals have been electrified in a project supported by Sustainable Energy for All to provide a more consistent supply of dependable and clean power. With the installation of solar photovoltaic systems, the delivery of healthcare, particularly for maternal and child health services to the population will be improved.

According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime’s (UNODC) 2023 World Drug Report, young people are the most vulnerable to using drugs. In Africa, for instance, 70 per cent of people in treatment are under the age of 35. Nevertheless, women and youth receive unequal access to treatment.  Read one woman’s story of how she overcame her substance use disorder and is now helping other women do the same.

The Vienna-based International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) helped to establish the first radiotherapy centre in Botswana in 2023. Its Rays of Hope initiative aims to close the gap in low- and middle-income countries by improving the availability of radiotherapy services, medical imaging and nuclear medicine. By working towards cancer care for all the IAEA is helping to bring good health and well-being to more people.