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Union South-East Asia Region Conference makes significant progress in challenging circumstances

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The 3rd Conference of The Union South East Asia Region in Kathmandu, Nepal (26-27 May), marked some historic gains in the fight against tuberculosis (TB) and tobacco – and took place in the face of logistical challenges still apparent from the devastating earthquake that affected the region in 2015.

Coordinated by the Nepal Anti-Tuberculosis Association (NATA) with a theme of TB and Lung Health, the conference brought together hundreds of delegates to discuss regional approaches to reduce the burden of TB and lung disease, and formulate new strategies and inspire progress towards a common goal of prevention in the region.

Particularly noteworthy was a commitment to work towards a TB and tobacco-free society in Nepal from the Nepal Government, which sent a delegation of senior officials to the conference, including the Vice President and Minister for Health.

Mr. Devendra Bahadur Pradhan, the President of the NATA and also the President of the Conference commented, “We have tried our best to make the conference a great success that every Union member in the SEA region would be proud of it." Prof Xiaolin Wei, The Union’s Secretary General, said, “This was a massive achievement by NATA when so many people in the region are still displaced and continue to live in tents. Surmounting both these logistical challenges and limited financial resources to host a major public health conference, is to the credit of NATA and the wider region. I congratulate them.”

Find out more about the Union South East Asia Region