Small Investments in Digital Health Could Save 2 Million Lives

A new report from the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that an additional investment of US$0.24 per patient annually in digital health interventions could save over 2 million lives from noncommunicable diseases (NCD) in the next decade.

“The future of health is digital,” says Tedros Adhanom, Director General, WHO. “We call on governments, partners, and donors to come together, invest strategically, and ensure that these life-saving innovations reach those who need them most,” adds Adhanom.

The "Going Digital for Noncommunicable Diseases: The Case for Action" report, made by WHO and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), was launched during an event hosted by the Government of The Gambia at the 79th United Nations General Assembly. The report emphasizes the urgent need for strategic investment and collaboration among governments, partners, and donors to ensure that digital health innovations reach those in need.

NCDs, including cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory conditions, account for over 74% of global deaths annually, many of which are preventable, reports WHO. Recent data shows alarming trends in the prevalence of NCDs among Mexican adults. From 2018 to 2022, the percentage of adults with hypertension surged from 34.10% to 47.80%. This condition significantly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, as reported by Mexico’s Ministry of Health (SSA).

Similarly, the prevalence of diabetes has increased. In 2018, 14.40% of Mexican adults were diagnosed with diabetes. By 2022, this figure had risen to 18.30%. “In Mexico, diabetes is considered a health crisis, and its prevalence is increasing especially after COVID-19,” says  Karla Alcazar, President and General Manager Latin America, Eli Lilly, to MBN.

While progress has been made in addressing these diseases, integrating digital health technologies into existing health systems poses a significant challenge. The report outlines the necessity of harnessing these technologies to scale effective interventions and reduce the healthcare burden.

Digital tools can empower individuals to better understand their health risks and foster healthier lifestyle choices, according to WHO. “Digital transformation could bridge the gap in healthcare access for Mexico’s rural and underserved populations,” says Enrique Remezal, CEO, ICON Group. “Telemedicine, enabled by mobile devices, can connect patients with healthcare providers remotely, helping to alleviate geographic disparities in healthcare availability.” 

Despite over 60% of countries having developed a digital health strategy, the integration of these technologies into existing health infrastructure remains inadequate. The report calls on nations to invest in digital public infrastructure and promote standards and interoperability to unlock the full potential of digital health initiatives.