Since 1950, World Health Day has been celebrated every April 7, highlighting areas of global health concern for populations worldwide. This World Health Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) is calling for action to eliminate health inequities towards the vision of piecing together a healthier and just world. Some recent WHO statistics underscore the dire situation of global health inequity:
- For the first time in 20 years, global poverty levels are predicted to rise and hinder the progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.
- Up to 60% of people living in some countries of the Region lack coverage with essential health services.
- More than 1 billion people living in informal settlements or slums are facing increased challenges in preventing infection and transmission of the coronavirus.
- 52% of the Asia-Pacific population remains unconnected to the internet.
Health inequities can be mitigated by integrating strategies that focus on health interventions for the most vulnerable and marginalized groups. COVID-19 has deeply impacted all countries, causing many to suffer, but its impact has been harshest on vulnerable communities more likely to be exposed to the disease and less likely to have access to quality health care services. Such populations have unjustly and unnecessarily faced adverse, preventable consequences. These communities should be at the forefront of decision-making processes as they have rippling consequences for the health and well-being for citizens worldwide.
To learn more about the state of health worldwide, check out GHELI’s resources on the Global Burden of Disease Study, by topic and by region.