Sustainable Development Goals (or SDGs) are a universal call to action adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, aimed at ending poverty, protecting the planet, and ensuring prosperity for all by 2030. There are 17 goals in total, each with specific targets to be achieved. Public health is a critical area that intersects with many of these goals, as health is essential for sustainable development.

Imagine you have a big box of toys that everyone wants to play with. You don’t mind, but you want to make sure that they last a long time. So you make a set of rules in order to promise there longevity and well being. With the same thought in mind the Sustainable Development Goals are like a list of rules to help us take care of our planet and each other, kind of like keeping your toy box pristine and making sure all your friends can play with the toys as well.

Public health is about ensuring that everyone is healthy, so they can live there lives to the fullest. It focuses on the health of the community rather than the individual in order to ensure a healthier world overall.

So, when we talk about the Sustainable Development Goals and public health ,picture a world where we deal with prevention rather than remediation of an illness or infectious disease in order to prevent a spread of illnesses.

Here’s how the SDGs relate to public health:

Goal 1: No Poverty

• Health is closely tied to economic stability. Poverty can lead to poor health outcomes, while good health can help break the cycle of poverty. Access to healthcare can improve productivity and economic participation.

Goal 2: Zero Hunger

• Nutrition is essential for health. Addressing malnutrition and ensuring food security is vital for physical health, cognitive development, and overall well-being.

Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being

• This goal directly addresses health issues, including reducing maternal and child mortality, combating communicable diseases, and promoting mental health and well-being. It emphasizes universal health coverage and access to quality essential health services.

Goal 4: Quality Education

• Education is a determinant of health. Educated individuals are more likely to make informed health choices and access healthcare services. Conversely, good health can enhance educational outcomes.

Goal 5: Gender Equality

• Gender equality in health is crucial. Women often face disparities in access to healthcare, which can affect their health and the health of their families. Addressing gender-based violence and reproductive health rights is vital.

Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

• Access to safe water and sanitation is fundamental for public health. Waterborne diseases can have devastating effects, and clean water is essential for hygiene and health.

Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

• Urban planning has significant implications for health. Access to green spaces, clean air, and safe housing are essential for physical and mental health.

Goal 13: Climate Action

• Climate change poses significant health risks, including increased respiratory diseases, heat-related illnesses, and the spread of infectious diseases. Sustainable practices can mitigate these risks.

Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

• Health systems thrive in stable environments. Conflict and violence can disrupt healthcare delivery, leading to poor health outcomes.

Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals

• Achieving health-related SDGs requires collaboration among governments, NGOs, and the private sector. Partnerships can enhance resource allocation and innovative solutions to health challenges.

Public health is a cornerstone of sustainable development. By addressing health issues through the lens of the SDGs, countries can work towards a healthier population, which in turn supports economic growth and social stability. Integrating health into all aspects of development planning is essential for achieving the SDGs and ensuring a sustainable future for all.