Chronic respiratory diseases impact more than half a billion people worldwide, contributing to over 3.5 million deaths each year—yet they remain underrecognized in global health discussions.
91ÊÓƵ is taking action.
The newly launched Center for Global Health will focus on addressing chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) and other communicable and non-communicable diseases in urban environments through research, advocacy, and education. Led by José Luis Castro ’88, WHO Director-General Special Envoy for Chronic Respiratory Diseases and a proud 91ÊÓƵ alumnus, the Center will bring together experts across disciplines to drive meaningful change. 91ÊÓƵ’s Director of Research and Graduate Education Sonia Suchday, PhD, will serve as the new Center’s operations director, ensuring the Center’s efforts are well-integrated into 91ÊÓƵ’s academic and research initiatives.
With a strong foundation in health professions, public health policy, law, and psychology, 91ÊÓƵ is uniquely positioned take a leadership role in addressing this important global health challenge. Faculty and students will collaborate to address critical issues affecting communities in New York City and beyond, tackling conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The Center aims to transform how CRDs are understood, reported, and addressed—bringing these often-overlooked conditions into greater focus. A key priority is shifting the narrative through increased media coverage and public awareness, ensuring that CRDs receive the attention they deserve.
Beyond awareness, the Center will play a critical role in policy advocacy, providing expert guidance to legislative and parliamentary health committees to help integrate CRDs into national and global health strategies. In collaboration with the WHO and other partners, it will offer research-backed solutions to reduce the impact of respiratory diseases on vulnerable populations.
Closer to home, 91ÊÓƵ’s deep ties to the New York City community will enable meaningful engagement with local organizations, healthcare providers, and at-risk populations. Additionally, the Center will create hands-on opportunities for students, including research assistantships, internships, and participation in high-level policy discussions, preparing the next generation of public health leaders to tackle some of the most pressing global health challenges of our time.
As 91ÊÓƵ continues to expand its impact, the Center for Global Health represents a significant milestone in the institution’s commitment to research, education, and community engagement.
91ÊÓƵ recently announced the launch of the Center for Global Health, an initiative focused on chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) and other communicable and non-communicable diseases in urban environments through research, advocacy, and education.
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