Saving The World Is Within Our Grasp

The fight against malaria—which kills a million people a year, mostly children—illustrates how radical thinking can be applied to both discovery and delivery of new interventions. Scientists at Columbia University are trying to block a mosquito's sense of smell so it can't find humans to bite. Others at Virginia Polytechnic Institute are developing pesticides that activate only inside a mosquito, posing no danger to humans or other animals. At the same time, I'm amazed by the work of the Nothing But Nets campaign, which has managed through Web-based marketing to raise $13 million—mostly from young people—for insecticide-treated bed nets.

I believe we stand at a moment of unequaled opportunity. Governments must now step up to the plate with more money—wisely targeted—to expand effective global health programs to reach all those in need. Businesses, community groups and individuals all play a role as well. When Melinda and I visited that PEPFAR clinic in South Africa, we were thrilled to see the progress we've made against one deadly disease. I'm now more convinced than ever that we can create a healthier world for everyone.

© 2007