Health matters: why we must commit to delivering prevention in an ageing world

Author(s)

HIMAWAN Arunima, BEACH Brian, MAYHEW Les

Publisher(s):

International Longevity Centre UK

Publication year:

2021

This report is designed as a first statement on why we need bolder spending commitments on prevention. The analysis finds that all G20 countries have improved their health outcomes in the last 20 years, but not at equal rates. The biggest improvements in healthy life expectancy have been seen in countries where the state pays for a greater share of health spending, reducing the cost barriers for individuals. Greater spending commitments can form the basis of longer-term prevention strategies that seek to: democratise access to prevention, to alleviate health inequalities; inspire and engage policymakers, healthcare professionals and individuals to consider, support and access prevention; effectively utilise technology. (Edited publisher abstract)