Health and well-being

While progress has been made in improving the health of millions of people, HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, hepatitis and other tropical diseases kill more than 4 million people every year. Hundreds of thousands of women die every year due to complications from pregnancy and childbirth, with most deaths preventable. At least half the global population does not have access to essential health services, and many of those who do suffer financial hardship, sometimes pushing them into poverty. Hunger is on the rise globally and in the United States, where 1 in 7 kids face hunger. Concerted efforts are required to accelerate improvements to health and well-being around the globe, including by expanding affordable access to healthcare. Companies have a key role in this effort, including through their participation along the healthcare value chain (drug and device manufacturers, providers, insurers, technology innovators and others); the healthcare benefits they offer employees; their contribution to water and air pollutants, and other determinants of public health; charitable giving and involvement in global health initiatives; and impact on growing the global economy (which allows more people to access and pay for healthcare)