The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its World Health Statistics Report 2025, revealing a concerning slowdown in global health progress.
According to the report published on May 15, the average global life expectancy has declined by 1.8 years between 2019 and 2021. Additionally, healthy life expectancy saw a reduction of six weeks, largely due to rising levels of anxiety and depression worldwide.
The annual World Health Statistics Report compiles health and health-related indicators, providing a comprehensive assessment of progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals. The 2025 edition not only consolidates data on key health indicators but also reviews global health topics such as premature mortality, the “Triple Billion targets,” and inequalities in immunization.
Despite some achievements, the report highlights areas of concern. While approximately 1.4 billion people were enjoying healthier lives by the end of 2024—exceeding WHO’s “Triple Billion targets”—this success is largely attributed to advancements in tobacco control, improved air quality, and enhanced basic sanitation.
However, progress has been slow in critical areas such as basic healthcare service coverage and health emergency preparedness. The reduction in maternal and child mortality rates has also fallen short of the set targets.
Young people, particularly in the Global South, are significantly affected by these challenges. Limited access to essential healthcare services and inadequate preparation for health emergencies are putting youth at greater risk. Rising mental health issues like anxiety and depression are contributing to the decline in healthy life expectancy among young adults.
The report emphasizes that noncommunicable diseases remain the leading cause of death globally, with the burden of chronic illnesses steadily increasing. Despite decreases in tobacco use and per capita alcohol consumption, air pollution and mental health issues continue to hinder overall health progress.
Furthermore, the WHO notes that health system recovery is sluggish, there is a severe shortage of health personnel, and challenges in infectious disease control persist. Vaccination rates have not fully rebounded since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The WHO is urging countries to increase investment in health systems to get global health progress back on track. “We must act now to address these challenges,” the report states, calling for renewed commitment from all nations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
