World Bank Report: Healthy Longevity Could Save 150 Million Lives by 2050, Transform Developing Countries

The report stresses the importance of addressing the rapid demographic changes, as one in three people will be over 60 by mid-century, with a focus on low- and middle-income countries.

A new World Bank report titled "Unlocking the Power of Healthy Longevity: Demographic Change, Non-communicable Diseases and Human Capital" highlights the potential for bold action in promoting healthy longevity to save 150 million lives and extend millions more by 2050. The report stresses the importance of addressing the rapid demographic changes, as one in three people will be over 60 by mid-century, with a focus on low- and middle-income countries.

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs)—including diabetes, respiratory diseases, heart diseases, and cancers—already account for over 70% of deaths in these regions. The report emphasizes that tackling NCDs is essential, as they disproportionately affect the poor and vulnerable, trapping people in cycles of poverty and ill health.

Mamta Murthi, Vice President of the World Bank’s People Vice Presidency, stated, “Non-communicable diseases trap people in poverty, affecting opportunity and quality of life for current and future generations. To tackle the burden of disease and promote healthy longevity, we are encouraging countries to look at approaches beyond health care.”

The World Bank’s report proposes several strategies for reducing NCDs and promoting healthy aging, including:

Integrating cost-effective clinical services and long-term care into primary healthcare systems.

Implementing excise taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks to promote healthier behaviors and generate additional government revenue.

Developing innovative social protection programs to help people in the informal sector afford healthcare costs and ensure dignified aging.

Promoting healthy longevity is also essential for addressing gender equity. Women often live longer than men but face longer periods of disease and disability with fewer resources to manage them. The report advocates for alternative caregiving options like community-based care to reduce the burden on women and help them remain in the workforce.

Juan Pablo Uribe, Global Director for Health at the World Bank, said, “Healthy Longevity is an evidence-based approach to help countries define prioritized, costed interventions and policy changes to save and extend people’s lives. We are ready to support countries on this journey with knowledge and financing.”

The World Bank has set a target to provide better health services to 1.5 billion people by 2030, with healthy longevity interventions playing a central role in achieving this goal, particularly for the poorest and aging populations.

The report underscores the broader economic benefits of healthy longevity, including reduced healthcare costs, healthier lifestyles, increased productivity, and lower public expenditure on social services, contributing to a more equitable and prosperous future for developing countries.