Number: 95-166 Title: World Health organization: A Fact Sheet Authors: Lois McHugh, Foreign Affairs and National Defense Division Abstract: The World Health organization (WHO), established in 1948, is the United Nations system's authority on international public health issues. It assists governments in improving national health services and in establishing worldwide standards for foods, chemicals, and biological and pharmaceutical products. WHO concentrates on preventive rather than curative programs, including efforts to eradicate endemic and other widespread diseases, stabilize population growth, improve nutrition, sanitation, and maternal and child care. WHO is not an operational agency. It works through contracts with other agencies and private voluntary organizations. Pages: 2 Date: Updated July 1, 1996