In a world whose needs are so diverse, a concept gaining acceptance in recent years is that health may be the bridge for understanding among and within countries in the common quest for peace, harmony, tolerance, and justice. Enlightened leadership increasingly is coming to recognize health as an integral part of human development, and thus a political priority.

For more than a decade, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has promoted this concept actively in Central America. Laying political differences aside, countries such as Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica collaborated in a host of health activities, while in El Salvador health workers reached deep into war zones at the height of conflict to immunize children during specially arranged cease-fires.

The signing of a formal peace accord between the Government of Guatemala and guerrilla forces in December 1996 marks the end to Central America's last and longest-running political conflict, and as former enemies lay down arms, once again in this country, health is a common meeting ground upon which the foundations for long-lasting peace and democratic stability are being constructed. Our cover story showcases the commitment of the Guatemalan Government, PAHO, and community health workers to help Guatemalans everywhere heal the wounds of war and achieve the highest possible levels of health and well-being.

Social justice, world peace, health, love, and happiness are perennially popular poster themes. The clever interplay of shapes, colors, and catchphrases holds us captive, much as bumper stickers do--we can't look away, and go on reading. We explore poster art's provocative appeal in communicating basic health messages using local color and cultural values to encourage the adoption of healthy lifestyles.

Some 100 million international tourists visit the Region of the Americas each year. In the Caribbean, one of the most frequented tourism destinations in the world, public and private interests are joining forces in an innovative program designed to protect the health and safety of residents and tourists alike, preserve the physical environment, and enhance socioeconomic development.

Promoting increased male participation in reproductive health matters is the topic of a story which also explores the biological, emotional, and sociocultural issues involved in redefining gender roles. This paradigm recognizes that men and women have separate reproductive health needs and seeks to address them by facilitating respectful and equitable relationships and shared responsibilities. At the same time, it discourages gender discrimination and stereotyping, focusing instead on healthy human development for society as a whole.

Just as peace begins to take root in Central America, a new war, international in scope, is brewing on another front. As Canada and the United States step up anti-tobacco legislation efforts and meet tobacco manufacturers head-on, these industry giants are turning to the developing countries to replace lost markets, focusing their advertising campaigns on youth in hopes of addicting the next generation of smokers and assuring perpetuity.

As 1997 draws to a close, I take this opportunity to thank all of you who honored PAHO during its 95th anniversary celebration this year and invite you to join us in 1998 as we commemorate the first 50 years of the World Health Organization.

As always, we encourage your letters and comments.