A team of international experts is working towards the “50 by 50” goal, which aims to reduce the likelihood of premature death before the age of 70 by 50% by focusing on 15 priority health conditions. These include 8 infectious diseases and maternal health, as well as 7 non-communicable diseases and injuries, according to a preliminary report by The Lancet Commission on Investing in Health.
The commission’s report estimates a more than 20% chance of a pandemic occurring in the next decade that could result in at least 25 million deaths, highlighting the critical need for pandemic preparedness and rapid response. This need aligns with the necessity to increase investments and services in priority health conditions to reduce premature deaths.
One proposed measure to achieve this goal is increasing taxes on tobacco products, as data indicates this approach could be more effective in reducing premature deaths than any other health policy.
The final report is expected to be released on October 15 and its findings will be presented at the World Health Summit scheduled in Berlin. The report outlines a pathway for countries of all income levels to significantly improve life expectancy and human well-being by 2050.
