U.S. investments in medical education in global health can channel a growing interest in health and humanitarian service to improve socioeconomic conditions in developing countries and help foster long-term sustainability and stronger health systems on the ground. Department Chair King Holmes wants everyone to sign this petition to create a Global Health Service Corps.

An International Clinical Research Center-led study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases showed a troubling link between hormonal contraception and HIV. The study received widespread press coverage because of the popularity of injectable birth control like Depo-Provera in parts of Africa hardest hit by the AIDS epidemic. The observational study of nearly 3,800 couples in Africa found that women using hormonal contraception --such as Depo-Provera – are at double the risk of acquiring HIV.

On Sept. 19-20, the United Nations held a big meeting that could affect the future of global health. We have several related news items:
* Two UW physicians -- David Watkins and Jim Logerfo wrote an opinion piece in the Seattle Times on the rise of NCDs. "The chronic-disease pandemic will be the "face" of global health in the coming decades...Seattle can play a leading role in the fight against premature death and disability from chronic diseases."

In recognition of her contributions to science, Dr. Connie Celum, UW professor of global health and medicine and adjunct professor of epidemiology, was selected for the American Sexually Transmitted Diseases Association (ASTDA) Achievement Award.  The award was given July 13 at the 19th International Society for STD Research conference in Quebec City, Canada.