The World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2025 World Health Statistics report reveals a concerning slowdown in global health advancements, primarily attributed to the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. While certain health targets have been met, others are lagging, underscoring the need for renewed global health initiatives.
Key Findings
- Healthier Lives: By the end of 2024, approximately 1.4 billion more people were living healthier lives, surpassing the WHO’s target of 1 billion. This achievement is credited to reductions in tobacco use, improved air quality, and better access to water, hygiene, and sanitation.
- Essential Health Services: Progress in expanding access to essential health services has been slower, with only 431 million additional people benefiting, falling short of the 1 billion target.
- Emergency Protection: Approximately 637 million more individuals are better protected from health emergencies, still below the goal of 1 billion.(World Health Organization)
Impact of COVID-19
The pandemic has had a profound impact on global health:
- Life Expectancy: Between 2019 and 2021, global life expectancy declined by 1.8 years, the most significant drop in recent history.
- Healthy Life Expectancy: Increased levels of anxiety and depression during the pandemic reduced global healthy life expectancy by approximately six weeks.(World Health Organization)
Call to Action
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the urgency of addressing these challenges:
“Behind every number is a person—a child who didn’t reach their fifth birthday, a mother who died during childbirth, a life lost to a preventable disease. These are avoidable tragedies that highlight significant gaps in access, protection, and investment in health, particularly for women and girls.”(World Health Organization)
He called on governments worldwide to act with urgency, commitment, and accountability to reverse the slowing progress in global health.(World Health Organization)
Moving Forward
The WHO’s findings underscore the importance of:
- Investing in resilient health systems
- Ensuring equitable access to essential health services
- Strengthening emergency preparedness and response mechanisms(World Health Organization)
Renewed global collaboration and investment are crucial to regain momentum in improving health outcomes worldwide.
Source: WHO – WHO warns of slowing global health gains in new statistics report
