A hereditary condition enters global policy

Participants recommended model legislation that countries could adapt to protect locally held medical knowledge.

The consensus document considered legal recognition and the protection of African medicinal biodiversity.

WHO regional director Luis Sambo stressed community interests when discussing access, ownership and benefit-sharing.

The assembly called for stronger national responses to sickle cell anaemia, especially where its burden is high.

The resolution urged countries to improve prevention, diagnosis, care and public awareness.

The resolution addressed training and support for those affected by sickle cell anaemia.

The WHO regional director issued a message for the fourth annual observance on 31 August 2006.

The observance framed traditional practitioners as part of discussion on access to care across the continent.

The annual message brought public attention to medical practices used by African communities.

The 2006 observance marked a fourth year of continent-wide debate about traditional medicine and health systems.