Medact

UK-based public health charity focusing on global health issues

Medact logo

Medact is a UK-based public health charity that works to address the social, political, and economic determinants of health. It focuses on issues such as peace, climate change, and social justice, aiming to promote a world in which everyone can live a healthy life. Medact is known for its advocacy and educational efforts, particularly in the areas of nuclear disarmament and environmental health.

History

Medact was founded in 1992 through the merger of two organizations: the Medical Campaign Against Nuclear Weapons (MCANW) and the Medical Association for the Prevention of War (MAPW). These organizations were established in response to the growing threat of nuclear conflict and the need for medical professionals to advocate for peace and disarmament.

Mission and Objectives

Medact's mission is to inspire the medical and health community to act on the social, political, and economic determinants of health. The organization aims to:

• Promote peace and security by advocating for nuclear disarmament and conflict prevention.
• Address the health impacts of climate change and environmental degradation.
• Tackle health inequalities and promote social justice.
• Educate and mobilize health professionals to advocate for policies that improve global health.

Key Areas of Work

Peace and Security

Medact continues the work of its predecessor organizations by focusing on the health implications of war and conflict. It advocates for nuclear disarmament and the prevention of armed conflict, emphasizing the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of nuclear war.

Pamphlet on the medical consequences of nuclear war

Climate and Environmental Health

Medact addresses the health impacts of climate change, advocating for policies that reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable development. The organization highlights the links between environmental degradation and health, calling for urgent action to protect the planet and its inhabitants.

Social Justice

Medact works to reduce health inequalities by addressing the social determinants of health. This includes advocating for fair access to healthcare, economic justice, and the protection of human rights. The organization supports policies that aim to reduce poverty and improve living conditions for marginalized communities.

Activities

Medact engages in a variety of activities to achieve its objectives, including:

• Conducting research and publishing reports on health-related issues.
• Organizing conferences, workshops, and seminars to educate and mobilize health professionals.
• Campaigning and advocacy work to influence public policy and raise awareness of global health issues.
• Collaborating with other organizations and networks to strengthen the impact of its work.

Related Pages

• Nuclear disarmament
• Climate change and health
• Social determinants of health
• Public health