The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) recognized Mario Kreutzberger, the Chilean television host known as "Don Francisco," for supporting health in the Americas over the past decade.
Washington, D.C., 20 September 2015 (PAHO/WHO) — The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) recognized Mario Kreutzberger, the Chilean television host known as "Don Francisco," for supporting health in the Americas over the past decade.
PAHO/WHO Director Carissa F. Etienne appeared on the final broadcast (Sept. 19) of Sábado Gigante ("Giant Saturday"), the Spanish-language variety show that Kreutzberger hosted for the past 53 years.
Etienne presented Kreutzberger with a crystal obelisk in recognition of his long collaboration with PAHO/WHO to raise awareness of disease prevention and to promote healthy lifestyles in the Americas.
"Don Francisco has helped us reach people throughout the Americas with messages on the importance of vaccines, blood donation, and an active, healthy lifestyle. That is why we named him PAHO/WHO Champion of Health in 2005," said Etienne said. "This collaboration will continue—we will keep working together to promote health and well-being."
Areas slated for collaboration in the near future include prevention of type 2 diabetes, diet, and healthy lifestyles.
Since he began his collaboration as a PAHO/WHO Champion of Health, Kreutzberger has appeared in a number of PAHO/WHO public service announcements, which have aired throughout the Region. He has also promoted health issues during episodes of Sábado Gigante and on other occasions.
View PAHO/WHO PSAs featuring Don Francisco in Spanish in this link
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The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) works with the countries of the Americas to improve the health and quality of life of the population. Founded in 1902, it is the world's oldest international public health agency. It serves as the WHO Regional Office for the Americas and is the specialized health agency of the Inter-American system.
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