A $3 solution to a global health crisis: Act now

WHO report reveals $3 annual investment could save millions of lives and boost global economy

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a powerful call to action, stating that an annual investment of just US$3 per person in tackling noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health could save 12 million lives and generate more than US$1 trillion in economic benefits by 2030.

The report, titled “Saving Lives, Spending Less”, highlights that while 82% of countries reduced NCD-related deaths between 2010 and 2019, progress has slowed, and in some regions, mortality rates are rising again. WHO warns that this slowdown threatens global health targets and demands urgent, coordinated action.

NCDs and mental health: A growing global threat

NCDs including cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory conditions — account for the majority of global deaths, with over 32 million people dying each year. More than one billion people live with mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, which often go untreated. Alarmingly, nearly 75% of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, emphasized the urgency:

“Noncommunicable diseases and mental health conditions are silent killers, robbing us of lives and innovation. We have the tools to save lives and reduce suffering. Investing in NCDs isn’t just smart economics — it’s an urgent necessity for thriving societies.”

Related story: Over 1 billion people living with mental health conditions, WHO warns of urgent action

Affordable, high-impact solutions

WHO’s updated list of ‘Best Buys’ provides countries with a cost-effective roadmap to combat NCDs and promote mental well-being. These include:

• Taxation on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks
• Marketing restrictions to protect children from harmful food and beverage advertising
• Scaling up cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination
• Improving hypertension management and early detection of cardiovascular risks
• Expanding access to essential medicines and mental health services

Implementing these interventions would cost governments only US$3 per person annually but could prevent 28 million heart attacks and strokes, add 150 million healthy life years, and significantly reduce health care costs globally.

Political will and global action needed

The upcoming Fourth United Nations General Assembly High-Level Meeting (HLM4) on NCDs and mental health, set for 25 September 2025, is expected to adopt a bold Political Declaration. WHO urges governments to seize this moment to fund, implement, and scale evidence-based interventions.

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Dr Devora Kestel, WHO’s Director for NCDs and Mental Health, reinforced the urgency:

“We know what works. The time to act is now. Governments that act decisively will save lives, cut costs, and unlock growth. Those that delay will pay in lost lives and weaker economies.”

WHO calls on leaders, policymakers, and communities to push for decisive action — including stronger primary health care systems, domestic financing, and protection of public health policies from corporate interference.

Stay informed and protect your health!

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