From 'one medicine' to 'one health' and systemic approaches to health and well-being
2011

From 'One Medicine' to 'One Health': A Comprehensive Approach to Health

publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Zinsstag J., Schelling E., Waltner-Toews D., Tanner M.

Primary Institution: Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute/University of Basel

Hypothesis

How can integrated approaches to human and animal health address complex global health challenges?

Conclusion

The study emphasizes the need for integrated health approaches that consider the interconnections between humans, animals, and ecosystems.

Supporting Evidence

  • Integrated health approaches can improve public health outcomes.
  • The concept of 'one health' extends beyond clinical issues to include ecological and societal dimensions.
  • Historical perspectives show that human and animal health have been interconnected for centuries.
  • Challenges remain in implementing integrated health strategies due to siloed thinking in public health.

Takeaway

This study shows that humans, animals, and the environment are all connected, and we need to work together to keep everyone healthy.

Methodology

The paper reviews historical and contemporary approaches to health integration and discusses the evolution of the 'one health' concept.

Limitations

The paper does not provide empirical data to support the claims made about the effectiveness of integrated health approaches.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1016/j.prevetmed.2010.07.003

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