By Sharif Mohammed Sadat
As Bangladesh experiences rapid urbanization, agricultural growth, and environmental changes, the health of its people, animals, and ecosystems becomes increasingly interconnected. Recognizing this, the One Health approach emphasizes that the well-being of humans, animals, and the environment is intrinsically linked. This holistic view is essential in tackling some of Bangladesh’s biggest health and environmental challenges, from zoonotic diseases to climate change impacts.
The One Health concept, championed by organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), united medical, veterinary, and environmental sciences to address complex issues, offering an integrated path forward for countries like Bangladesh. Given that nearly 75% of new infectious diseases originate in animals, a collaborative One Health model is essential for proactive disease management.
Bangladesh has faced numerous outbreaks of zoonotic diseases—those transmitted from animals to humans—including rabies, avian influenza, and the Nipah virus. Such diseases thrive in settings with high population density and close human-animal interactions, like those in Bangladesh. The One Health approach promotes early detection through integrated animal and human health monitoring, enabling timely response to prevent transmission to humans and thus reducing outbreak costs and health risks. Agriculture also plays a vital role in Bangladesh’s economy and food security.
However, the widespread use of antibiotics in livestock has led to an increase in antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a global health threat. The One Health framework advocates for responsible antibiotic use, promoting biosecurity and sustainable practices to protect public health and ensure food security.
Climate change is impacting Bangladesh on multiple fronts, from rising sea levels to increased temperatures and flooding, which contribute to the spread of waterborne and vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue. Deforestation, water pollution, and industrial contamination are other significant environmental health risks. Adopting One Health principles means promoting environmental conservation, ecosystem restoration, and climate resilience. This can improve health outcomes while protecting natural resources for future generations, positioning Bangladesh to better adapt to global environmental challenges. Recognizing the need for integrated health solutions, Bangladesh launched the One Health Bangladesh Initiative in 2012, bringing together experts in human, animal, and environmental health to create a unified strategy.
Community awareness and support are essential for One Health initiatives to succeed. Education campaigns in rural areas, where human-animal interactions are most common, can teach safe practices and raise awareness on reducing zoonotic risks. Farmers can be encouraged to adopt sustainable practices that reduce antibiotic use, while communities learn about the environmental impacts of pollution. Public health campaigns, school programs, and partnerships with local organizations are effective means to spread this knowledge, creating a culture of shared responsibility and proactive health measures.
As we celebrate One Health Day, we reflect on the importance of this integrated approach in building a resilient, sustainable healthcare system that considers all facets of health. A strong One Health framework will not only benefit people but also animals and ecosystems, ensuring a healthier world for future generations.
Author: IFMSA Regional Director for Asia-Pacific