At least 15 million people die of preventable diseases every year. These deaths result from inadequate healthcare, lack of access to essential medicines, poor nutrition, and unsafe environments. Furthermore, we are spending an astonishing amount of money and resources on treating illnesses that are surprisingly easy to prevent. The new goal for worldwide Good Health promotes healthy lifestyles, preventive measures and modern, efficient healthcare for everyone.
Sustainable Development Goal 3, SDG 3: Health and Wellbeing, aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental human right, yet millions worldwide lack proper medical services. Health crises, such as pandemics, non-communicable diseases, and maternal mortality, continue to threaten lives and economies.
Achieving SDG 3 requires strengthening healthcare systems, improving access to medicines, and fostering innovative approaches to well-being and disease prevention.
Why Health and Wellbeing Matters
Health is central to sustainable development. When people are healthy:
Economies grow as productivity increases.
Communities thrive with reduced healthcare burdens.
Social inequalities shrink as access to quality healthcare improves.
However, without urgent action, preventable diseases and poor healthcare access will continue to devastate lives, particularly in low-income regions.
SDG 3: Health and Wellbeing Targets
SDG 3 is structured around specific targets that address global health challenges:
Target 3.1: Reduce Maternal Mortality – Decrease global maternal mortality to less than 70 per 100,000 live births.
Target 3.2: End Preventable Deaths of Newborns and Children Under 5 – Reduce neonatal and under-five mortality rates significantly.
Target 3.3: End Epidemics – Combat AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and other infectious diseases.
Target 3.4: Reduce Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and Promote Mental Health – Reduce premature mortality from NCDs through prevention and treatment.
Target 3.5: Strengthen Prevention and Treatment of Substance Abuse – Address drug and alcohol dependency issues.
Target 3.6: Halve Global Road Traffic Deaths and Injuries – Improve road safety to reduce fatalities.
Target 3.7: Ensure Universal Access to Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare – Provide family planning, information, and education for all.
Target 3.8: Achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) – Ensure financial risk protection and access to quality essential health services.
Target 3.9: Reduce Deaths and Illnesses from Pollution and Contamination – Decrease the impact of hazardous chemicals, water, and air pollution.
Target 3.a: Strengthen Tobacco Control Policies – Implement stronger regulations to reduce tobacco use.
Target 3.b: Support Research and Development of Vaccines and Medicines – Ensure access to essential medicines for all.
Target 3.c: Increase Healthcare Financing and Workforce – Strengthen health systems by investing in medical staff and resources.
Target 3.d: Improve Early Warning Systems for Global Health Risks – Enhance preparedness for health emergencies.
The Role of Social Entrepreneurs in Advancing Health and Wellbeing
Social entrepreneurs play a crucial role in improving global health by developing sustainable healthcare solutions. Their contributions include:
Expanding Access to Affordable Healthcare – Creating low-cost clinics, telemedicine, and mobile health services.
Innovating in Medical Technology – Developing cost-effective diagnostic tools and treatments.
Advancing Preventive Care and Education – Promoting health awareness and early intervention programs.
Improving Mental Health Services – Offering accessible psychological support and counseling.
Strengthening Supply Chains for Medicines – Ensuring equitable distribution of essential drugs and vaccines.
Examples of Social Enterprises Advancing Health and Wellbeing
1. Zipline – Using Drones to Deliver Medical Supplies
This enterprise uses drones to transport blood, vaccines, and medical supplies to remote areas, ensuring life-saving deliveries.
2. Living Goods – Community Health Empowerment
Living Goods trains and equips community health workers in Africa to provide essential medical care and preventive health education.
3. myAgro – Supporting Farmers’ Health and Nutrition
By providing access to better seeds and fertilizers, myAgro improves the health and nutrition of farming communities.
4. SafeBoda – Reducing Road Traffic Fatalities
This motorcycle taxi service enhances road safety by training drivers and providing emergency response services in Africa.
5. Medic Mobile – Strengthening Healthcare with Digital Solutions
This venture uses mobile technology to improve health outcomes in underserved regions by connecting patients to healthcare providers.
Conclusion: A Healthier Future is Possible
SDG 3 is fundamental to human development, economic stability, and global resilience. Social entrepreneurs are making significant strides in improving health access, promoting preventive care, and innovating new healthcare solutions.
By supporting these initiatives and fostering partnerships, we can move closer to a world where good health and well-being are truly accessible for all.
