Africa's agricultural sector could become a $1 trillion (664 billion pounds) industry by 2030 if governments and the private sector radically rethink policies and support for farmers, a World Bank

Nigeria and Ghana have recently introduced a National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) with the aim of moving towards universal health care using more equitable financing mechanisms. This study compares health and economic indicators, describes the structure of each country’s NHIS within the wider healthcare system, and analyses impacts on equity in financing and access to health care.

A vaccine to combat malaria could become a reality by 2014. While currently there are no licensed vaccines against malaria or any other human parasite, a research vaccine against P. falciparum, known as RTS,S/AS01, is at an advanced stage.

According to the WHO experts, the vaccine is currently being evaluated in a large clinical trial in 7 countries in Africa. However, the WHO recommendation for use will depend on the final results from the large clinical trial. “These final results are expected in late 2014, and a recommendation as to whether or not this vaccine should be added to existing malaria control tools is expected in 2015”.

The National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) has just launched a study examining the impact of open-fire cooking on regional air quality and human health.

Increased education of girls in developing contexts is associated with a number of important positive health, social, and economic outcomes for a community. The event of menarche tends to coincide with girls' transitions from primary to secondary education and may constitute a barrier for continued school attendance and performance. Following the MRC Framework for Complex Interventions, a pilot controlled study was conducted in Ghana to assess the role of sanitary pads in girls' education.

A United Nations initiative to provide sustainable energy for the 1.6 billion people without power may reach as many as 300 million in three years, said Kandeh Yumkella, who is leading the effort.

A coalition of countries and agencies seeking to curb Earth-warming pollutants like soot released by wood-fired ovens and methane from oil extraction, on Tuesday welcomed seven new members to its f

President Barack Obama on Friday said the United States has a “moral imperative” to lead the fight against hunger and malnutrition in Africa despite shrinking national budgets around the world.

International development experts say that the Millennium Villages Project's claims of progress should be interpreted with caution. (Editorial)

Washington India's population aged 50 and over is expected to double by 2050 when nearly one-third of its total population would fall in this age group, according to a US census.

As per 2010 census, 19,18,53,000 people in India were of 50 years and above, which made about 16.4 per cent of the total population. According to the US Census Bureau, this is projected to increase to 20 per cent (26,49,13,000) in 2020 and 24.3 per cent (35,55,96,000) in 2030; 28.5 per cent (44,82,23,000) in 2040 and 32.6 per cent (54,04,24,000) in 2050.

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