Joint WHO-CDC conference on laboratory quality systems, Lyon, April 2008--joint statement and recommendations/Conference conjointe OMS-CDC sur les systemes de qualite des laboratoires, Lyon, avril 2008--declaration et recommandations conjointes.(World Health Organization and the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Background

WHO and the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) hosted an international conference on systems for assuring quality in laboratories in Lyon, France on 9-11 April 2008. The meeting, which was attended by more than 200 experts from 70 countries, reviewed the status of laboratory quality systems around the world and agreed strategies to ensure accurate, reliable and timely laboratory test results in all countries. All 200 participants endorsed the following joint WHO-CDC statement and recommendations.

Joint WHO-CDC statement: laboratory quality systems in the 21st century

As we move into the 21st century, diseases of public health importance continue to be a significant global threat. Widespread epidemics could cost millions of lives, and many countries are still struggling with a longstanding battle against rampant infectious diseases. In addition, chronic diseases, which in the past have been primarily of concern in wealthier countries, are now affecting other populations.

In order to deal effectively with the detection, treatment and prevention of these global threats to the health of the public, it is essential that accurate and reliable health laboratory testing be available in every country. Early detection and management of disease outbreaks can only be accomplished if responsive laboratory systems are in place. Many therapeutic decisions rely heavily on data from health laboratories. Prevention of infectious and noncommunicable diseases requires accurate diagnostic information. The critical importance of high-quality health laboratory services is now widely recognized.

Given the vital role that laboratories play in every aspect of health services, it is imperative that countries undertake …