The Big Push to Defeat AIDS, TB and Malaria

Written by Executive Director, Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria

Harness the funds needed, we can essentially take these diseases off the table.

Timing is critical. the disease finds new forms that are far more complex and expensive to defeat

Those of us who work in global health know that there is no greater investment in the world than in prevention and treatment for these terrible diseases. We need to make a big push, to secure the funding we need.

One, we must make our money count. 'Value for money' -- Investing in health is actually better value for money than almost any investment imaginable.

keep an AIDS carrier alive on drugs that cost $125 a year, compared with $10,000 a year just one decade ago

prevent the spread of malaria, and save the lives of millions of young mothers and children with mosquito nets that cost a few dollars.

This money is put to excellent use.

Two, we need to focus on impact.

Three, we have to combine every evidence-based approach that works to prevent the spread of disease. 

Four, we must be accountable and transparent. 

There must be no question that money invested in global health projects are reaching their intended targets, and that the spending path is full traceable.

Five, we have to work together. It takes more than a village to raise healthy children around the world - it takes all of us, working together.

Six, we must always be learning.  an innovative approach to development

We know from experience that by working together, with shared responsibility, with clear mission focus, and with passion and compassion as global health citizens, these three diseases can be completely controlled and -- with further scientific advancements -- can actually be eliminated.