What are the Sustainable Development Goals? These 17 goals were created by the United Nations to “promote prosperity while protecting the planet” (United Nations). Goal #3, Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3) was created to improve people’s health worldwide. As a part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, recognizes that good health is essential for economic growth, social progress, and environmental stability. SDG 3 aims to reduce maternal and child mortality, combat communicable diseases, and ensure access to essential healthcare services.
One of SDG 3’s important roles is to reduce maternal mortality to fewer than 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030. Another goal is ending preventable child deaths by lowering neonatal mortality to at least 12 deaths per 1,000 live births and children under-five mortality to at least 25 per 1,000 lives. SDG 3 also seeks to decrease the number of cases of diseases like AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, hepatitis, waterborne diseases, and other health concerns. Universal health coverage is a major focus, ensuring access to quality healthcare, medicines, and vaccines without financial trouble. It also prioritizes reducing premature deaths from diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Strengthening healthcare systems, increasing medical research, and expanding access to trained healthcare professionals are critical to achieving these goals. Mental health is also emphasized, with efforts to address disorders and reduce suicide rates around the world.
Despite progress, many challenges remain. Healthcare inequality persists, particularly in low-income countries that lack infrastructure, funding, and trained personnel—additionally, threats like pandemics, antimicrobial resistance, and environmental hazards further strain global health systems. Many individuals, especially in developing nations, struggle to access medicines and vaccines due to financial barriers. Mental health also remains underdiagnosed and undertreated due to stigma and limited resources.
Achieving SDG 3 requires collaboration among governments, international organizations, healthcare providers, and individuals. Governments must prioritize healthcare funding, create policies for universal access, and strengthen public health systems. Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) must cooperate in providing medical assistance, funding research, and addressing health crises to succeed. Individuals can contribute by promoting healthy lifestyles, raising awareness, and supporting initiatives that improve healthcare accessibility.
Good health and well-being are fundamental to human development and sustainability. Addressing health disparities, enhancing healthcare systems, and fostering global cooperation are essential for achieving Sustainable Development Goal #3, Good Health and Well-Being. Ensuring a healthier world is not just a goal but a necessity for a thriving future.
