Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3 - Good health and well-being

SDG 3, "Good Health and Well-being", is an important and fundamental goal within the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Over the past 15 years, childhood deaths have decreased by 50%, showcasing significant progress in our ability to combat various infectious diseases. However, despite this achievement, a considerable amount of resources is still allocated to treating preventable illnesses. The new global goal for Good Health emphasizes the importance of adopting healthy lifestyles, preventive measures, and providing accessible and efficient healthcare for all.

Here's why SDG 3 is so crucial:

1. ‍Human Capital: Health is a fundamental asset for individuals, communities, and nations. Good health and well-being are essential for people to reach their full potential, contribute to society, and lead fulfilling lives.
2. Mortality Reduction: SDG 3 aims to reduce the global maternal mortality ratio, end preventable deaths of newborns and children under five, and substantially reduce mortality from non-communicable diseases and other major health issues. Achieving these targets saves lives and promotes well-being.
3. Disease Prevention: This goal promotes the prevention, treatment, and management of communicable diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, as well as non-communicable diseases like diabetes and cancer. Preventing and managing these and other communicable diseases significantly improves public health.
4. Universal Health Coverage: SDG 3 advocates for universal health coverage (UHC), ensuring that all individuals have access to essential healthcare services without facing financial hardship. UHC contributes to equitable access to essential health services, reducing health inequalities.
5. Vaccination and Immunization: This goal emphasizes immunization against preventable diseases. Immunization programs have proven highly effective in reducing child mortality and promoting overall health.
6. Mental Health: SDG 3 recognizes the importance of mental health and well-being. Promoting mental health and providing access to mental healthcare services are vital components of this goal.
7. Reproductive Health: Ensuring universal access to sexual, and reproductive health services, including family planning, contributes to healthier pregnancies, safer childbirth, and better maternal health.
8. Infectious Disease Control: This goal addresses the need for global health security by strengthening the capacity to respond to disease outbreaks and public health emergencies.
9. Environmental Health: SDG 3 acknowledges the link between environmental factors and health. Promoting environmental sustainability (SDG 13) is essential for preventing health hazards related to pollution, climate change, and other environmental challenges.
10. Research and Development: Advances in medical research and technology play a crucial role in achieving good health and well-being. SDG 3 supports research and innovation to find solutions to health challenges.
11. Life Expectancy: Improving health outcomes directly correlates with increased life expectancy, which has positive socio-economic implications, including a more productive workforce and reduced healthcare costs.
12. Global Health Equity: This goal emphasizes the need for global partnerships and cooperation to address health disparities both within and among countries, helping to ensure that no one is left behind.
13. Pandemic Preparedness: Recent global health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, underscore the importance of preparedness and response to global health risks and emergencies, which are integral to SDG 3.

In summary, SDG 3, "Good Health and Well-Being," is critical because it addresses the fundamental need for access to quality healthcare and emphasizes the importance of overall health, including mental health. Achieving this goal has far-reaching implications for saving lives and promoting well, reducing health inequalities, promoting economic development, and building resilient healthcare systems that can respond to global health challenges. It represents a significant step toward a healthier and more prosperous world for all.

Your contributions in achieving SDG 3

Everyone can contribute to ensuring health financing the achievement of the Global Goals. Utilize these thirteen targets to take action in promoting health and well-being for all.

Target 3.1

You can play a role in achieving the goal of reducing the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 100 per 1,000 live births by 2030. Support initiatives that prioritize maternal health and access to quality healthcare for expectant mothers.

Target 3.2

Contribute to the aim of ending preventable deaths of newborns and children under 5 years of age by 2030. Advocate for and support programs that work towards reducing neonatal mortality and under‑5 mortality, ensuring that every child has a chance at a healthy life.

Target 3.3

Participate in efforts to end the epidemics of AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and neglected tropical diseases by 2030. Additionally, support initiatives combating hepatitis, water-borne diseases, and other communicable diseases through awareness, advocacy, and responsible behavior.

Target 3.4

Take steps to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases by one third by 2030 through prevention and treatment. Focus on promoting mental health and well-being in your community, promote mental health, and encourage others to adopt healthy lifestyles.

Target 3.5

Play a role in strengthening the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol. Support awareness campaigns and initiatives that promote a healthier and substance-free lifestyle.

Target 3.6

Contribute to the aim of halving the number of global deaths and injuries from road traffic accidents by 2020. Advocate for and practice responsible and safe road behavior, promoting road safety awareness in your community.

Target 3.7

Advocate for universal access to sexual and reproductive health-care services, including family planning, information, and education by 2030. Support organizations and policies that prioritize reproductive health and education.

Target 3.8

Promote the objective of achieving universal health coverage by advocating for financial risk protection, access to quality essential health-care services, and access to safe, effective, quality, and affordable essential medicines and vaccines for all.

Target 3.9

Contribute to efforts directed at substantially reducing the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination by adopting environmentally conscious practices and supporting pollution control measures.

Target 3.A

Advocate for and support the strengthening of the implementation of the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control in all countries.

Target 3.B

Support research and development of vaccines and medicines for diseases affecting developing countries. Advocate for and contribute to providing access to affordable essential medicines and vaccines particular developing countries in alignment with international agreements.

Target 3.C

Advocate for and support initiatives that substantially increase universal health coverage including through financing and the recruitment, development, training, and retention of the health workforce in developing countries, particularly in least developed countries and small island developing States.

Target 3.D

Contribute to efforts aimed at improving the capacity of all countries, particularly developing countries, for early warning, risk reduction, and management of national and global health risks through awareness, education, and support for relevant policies and programs.

Things to Do to Get Started

• Find a Goal 3 charity to support. Any donation, big or small, can make a difference!
• Ensure vaccinations for yourself and your children to protect your family's health and contribute to protect public health and well-being.
• Register as an organ and tissue donor in your country.
• Make a meaningful impact by donating blood – a simple act that saves lives!

Primarily Affected Developing Countries

Addressing global challenges that primarily affect developing countries requires a comprehensive and collaborative effort. By prioritizing equitable economic policies, investing in education and healthcare, and fostering international cooperation, we can work towards a world where every nation, regardless of its development status, can thrive and achieve sustainable growth.

Economic Disparities: Widening the Gap

Global Economic Inequities: Developing countries often grapple with unequal access to economic resources, facing challenges such as limited trade opportunities, debt burdens, and a lack of financial stability.

Impact on Development Goals: Economic disparities hinder progress toward achieving sustainable development goals, perpetuating cycles of poverty and limiting opportunities for growth.

Access to Education: Breaking the Cycle

Educational Inequalities: Limited access to quality education in developing countries impedes social mobility and perpetuates socio-economic disparities, creating obstacles for individuals and communities.

Empowerment Through Education: Exploring initiatives that empower communities through education, from literacy programs to vocational training, to break the cycle of poverty.

Healthcare Disparities: Ensuring Wellness for All

Challenges in Healthcare Infrastructure: Developing countries often grapple with inadequate healthcare infrastructure, limited access to essential services, and challenges in disease prevention and control.

Global Health Initiatives: Highlighting the importance of global health initiatives that focus on equitable healthcare access, disease prevention, and building resilient health systems.

Climate Change Impact: Vulnerability Amplified

Environmental Vulnerability: Developing countries are disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change, facing challenges such as extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and agricultural disruptions.

Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies: Exploring national strategies for climate change adaptation and mitigation tailored to the specific needs of developing nations, promoting resilience and sustainability.

Food Insecurity: Navigating Scarcity

Agricultural Challenges: Developing countries often face challenges in agricultural productivity, including issues related to land use, water scarcity, and reliance on traditional farming practices.

Sustainable Agriculture Solutions: Promoting sustainable agriculture practices, empowering local farmers, and addressing issues of food distribution to combat food insecurity.

Healthy Lives and Promoting a Holistic Approach to Wellness

Promoting healthy lives requires a comprehensive and collaborative effort that spans individual choices, community initiatives, and global policies. By prioritizing accessible healthcare, balanced nutrition, mental wellness, and sustainable practices, we can collectively contribute to a world where everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

Global Maternal Mortality Ratio

Addressing the global maternal mortality ratio requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses healthcare system strengthening, socio-economic empowerment, and global collaboration. By prioritizing maternal and child health as a global imperative, we can work towards a future where every mother has access to safe and dignified childbirth, ensuring the well-being of both mothers and their newborns.

Reproductive Health Care Services

Reproductive health care services play a pivotal role in promoting the well-being, autonomy, and dignity of individuals in matters of reproductive and sexual health. By addressing challenges, advocating for inclusivity, and leveraging technological advancements, we can work towards a future where reproductive health care is accessible to all, empowering individuals to make informed choices and live healthy, fulfilling lives.

Challenges in Reproductive Health Care Services

Cultural and Societal Stigmas: Addressing cultural and societal stigmas that hinder individuals from seeking reproductive health care services and perpetuate misinformation.

Limited Access in Developing Regions: Acknowledging the challenges of limited access to reproductive health care services in developing regions, including geographic remoteness and resource constraints.