NURS FPX 8014 Assessment 1 Nongovernmental Agencies Involved in Global Issues NURS FPX 8014 Global Population Health

Non-Governmental Organizations Addressing Global Health Challenges

Abstract

This paper explores the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in addressing global health issues, focusing on the example of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and its efforts in combating diabetes. It discusses the distinctions between public health NGOs and governmental public health organizations, emphasizing the advantages and challenges faced by NGOs. The paper also delves into the evaluation methods employed by public health NGOs in addressing health issues and reflects on the experiences and insights gained through research and interviews with representatives from the IDF. Additionally, it highlights the significance of public health NGOs in addressing global health concerns and concludes with a call for increased efforts from similar organizations to tackle diverse global health issues.

Introduction

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) play a crucial role in addressing political, social, and economic issues on local, national, and international levels (Pal et al., 2019). This paper examines the involvement of NGOs, specifically focusing on the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), in addressing global health challenges, with a particular emphasis on diabetes.

NGOs and Global Health Challenges

NGOs, such as the IDF, contribute significantly to addressing global health challenges, particularly in the realm of diabetes. Diabetes, a chronic disease affecting blood sugar regulation, has become a major public health concern, contributing to various health issues such as coronary diseases, stroke, and complications in kidneys, eyes, and nerves (Forouhi & Wareham, 2019). In Mauritius, for instance, where diabetes prevalence is notably high at 20% of the population, the government has initiated several programs to combat this health issue (Paurobally et al., 2021).

Distinctions Between Public Health NGOs and Governmental Organizations

Public health NGOs operate independently and often focus on disease education, prevention, and treatment, supported by donations and grants (Ralston et al., 2020). In contrast, governmental public health organizations, like the World Health Organization (WHO), have broader reach and funding derived from government sources, enabling them to formulate policies and programs for public health (Gostin et al., 2020).

The Role of IDF in Global Health

The IDF, established in 1950, is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting diabetes treatment, prevention, and cure worldwide (International Diabetes Federation, 2021). With over 230 member associations across 160 countries, the IDF actively engages in initiatives such as the World Diabetes Day campaign to raise awareness and support programs for managing and preventing diabetes (Tönnies et al., 2021).

Advantages of Public Health NGOs Over Government-Sponsored Programs

Public health NGOs, including the IDF, demonstrate greater adaptability, creativity, and responsiveness to local health issues. They can focus on specific populations or health concerns overlooked by government-sponsored programs and collaborate with various organizations to utilize resources effectively (Pierre, 2020). Additionally, NGOs seek donations proactively, distribute funds more independently, and offer streamlined assistance application processes (Boulton, 2020).

Challenges Faced by Public Health NGOs

While NGOs offer flexibility and innovation, they face challenges such as limited resources, lack of political influence, and difficulties in sustaining long-term projects due to inconsistent funding (Amiri & Pagheh, 2019). The IDF, relying heavily on donations and grants, encounters obstacles in reaching a larger diabetic population (International Diabetes Federation, 2021).

Evaluation of Global Health Issues by NGOs

Public health NGOs, like the IDF, assess health issues based on prevalence, severity, available resources, and potential for prevention and management (Piemonte, 2021). Reliable data from institutions like the WHO aids NGOs in making informed decisions on intervention strategies (Ogurtsova et al., 2021).

Practicum Research and Interviewing Experiences

Research and interviews with IDF representatives provide insights into the organization’s strategies and initiatives in diabetes prevention and management. The experiences highlight the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence-based interventions in addressing global health issues (Sayarifard et al., 2022).

Conclusion

In conclusion, NGOs, exemplified by the IDF, pl