In 2025, public health in Lebanon and the broader Middle East faces a complex array of challenges and opportunities. From combating infectious diseases to addressing mental health and environmental concerns, governments and organizations are working to improve the region’s health outcomes.
Lebanon: Rising Healthcare Pressures Amid Economic Crisis
Lebanon’s healthcare sector continues to grapple with the ripple effects of its prolonged economic crisis. Hospitals are facing shortages of essential medicines and medical supplies, exacerbating the struggles of patients with chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Public hospitals, which serve a large portion of the population, are under immense pressure as private hospitals reduce services due to rising costs.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and NGOs are stepping in with support. For instance, vaccination campaigns are underway to prevent outbreaks of diseases such as measles and polio. Additionally, mental health initiatives are being launched to address the growing cases of anxiety and depression, which have been exacerbated by economic uncertainty and displacement.
Mental Health in the Middle East: Breaking the Stigma
Across the region, mental health is becoming a more prominent public health focus. In countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, governments are investing in mental health awareness campaigns and facilities. However, cultural stigma remains a barrier to seeking care in many Middle Eastern societies.
Lebanon has also seen a rise in mental health awareness, with organizations such as Embrace and IDRAAC offering suicide prevention hotlines and counseling services. Educational campaigns are helping to normalize discussions around mental health, especially among younger populations.
Tackling Infectious Diseases
The Middle East remains vigilant in controlling infectious diseases. With large-scale population movements due to conflicts and crises, the risk of outbreaks is high. Syrian refugee camps in Lebanon and Jordan have reported sporadic outbreaks of tuberculosis (TB) and scabies, highlighting the need for continued healthcare access in these areas.
The COVID-19 pandemic has left a lasting impact, prompting countries to strengthen their disease surveillance systems. Regional cooperation, led by organizations like the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office (EMRO), aims to improve vaccination rates and control the spread of diseases like cholera, which recently re-emerged in Lebanon.
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): A Growing Concern
Non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity are on the rise in the Middle East, driven by sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, and smoking. Lebanon, in particular, has one of the highest smoking rates in the region, contributing to a significant burden of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
Public health campaigns in countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are promoting healthier lifestyles through anti-smoking laws, sugar taxes, and fitness programs. Lebanon has also seen efforts to encourage smoking cessation and promote awareness of the dangers of NCDs, though financial constraints limit the scope of these programs.
Environmental Health: Addressing Air and Water Pollution
Environmental health is a pressing issue in the Middle East, with air pollution and water scarcity affecting millions. In Lebanon, the improper disposal of waste and pollution of water resources remain major concerns. Coastal areas have reported increased cases of waterborne diseases due to contamination.
Regional initiatives such as the “Middle East Green Initiative” led by Saudi Arabia aim to combat climate change and improve air quality. Lebanon, despite its challenges, is part of these regional efforts to promote reforestation and reduce carbon emissions.
The Path Forward
Public health in Lebanon and the Middle East is at a crossroads. While significant challenges persist, the region’s increased focus on mental health, infectious disease control, and environmental health offers hope for improved outcomes. Greater collaboration between governments, NGOs, and international organizations will be key to addressing the region’s unique public health needs.