On World Health Day 2026, attention turns to the urgent health challenges facing people in Afghanistan, where years of past conflict and current hostilities, economic and development difficulties, and natural disasters have strained an already fragile healthcare system. Millions continue to face limited access to healthcare services, particularly women, children, and those in remote areas. 

Despite these challenges, the support provided by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to 46 Basic Health Clinics (BHCs) and one District Hospital of the Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) has proven to significantly contribute to improving the lives of the population. 

In 2025, around 1.2 million patients, mostly women and children continued to access preventive care and early treatment at BHCs supported by the ICRC. By providing care at the earliest stages of illness, these facilities help reduce pressure on an already overstretched secondary healthcare system.