Ten Global Health Issues to Track in 2025: From Climate Crises to Mental Health As the world enters 2025, global health remains under pressure from a complex mix of emerging and persistent threats. From the resurgence of infectious diseases to the escalating mental health crisis, experts warn that coordinated action is essential to prevent further setbacks in global well-being.
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)
Antimicrobial resistance is projected to cause 39 million deaths between 2025 and 2050, equating to three deaths every minute globally. The Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (GRAM) Project highlights the urgent need for improved surveillance and stewardship of antibiotics. “Without decisive action, common infections could become untreatable,” warns Dr. Francesca Harper, a senior medical doctor with Assist 360.
Infectious Disease Outbreaks
Recent years have seen a rise in outbreaks, including Marburg virus, Mpox, and avian influenza. The Global Preparedness Monitoring Board reported 17 outbreaks in 2024 alone, emphasizing vulnerabilities in global health systems. The Global Health Security Index reveals that all195 countries remain dangerously unprepared for future pandemics, despite lessons learned from COVID-19.
Climate Change and Health
Extreme weather events, ranked as the second most pressing global risk in 2025 by the World Economic Forum, are directly impacting health outcomes. Climate disasters are causing injuries, fatalities, and infrastructure breakdowns, while changing weather patterns are exacerbating diseases like malaria and worsening respiratory conditions due to poor air quality. Vulnerable populations, especially in Africa and southern Asia, face disproportionate risks due to limited resources and inadequate medical infrastructure.
Mental Health Crisis
Mental health disorders are the leading cause of disability worldwide, with one in two people expected to develop a mental health disorder in their lifetime, according to research from Harvard Medical School and the University of Queensland. “Mental health should be a key priority in 2025 due to its growing burden and impact on physical health,” says Dr. Harper.
Tuberculosis (TB) Resurgence
Tuberculosis returned as the world’s leading cause of death from a single infectious agent in 2023, with over 10 million new cases annually. The disease is heavily concentrated in India, Indonesia, China, the Philippines, and Pakistan, which together account for over half of global TB cases.
Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases
Malaria remains a major threat, with an estimated 263 million new cases and 597,000 deaths in 2023. The disease is resurging due to climate change, drug resistance, and disruptions in healthcare systems, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Hepatitis and Non-Communicable Diseases
Hepatitis causes 1.3 million deaths annually, while non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease and cancer continue to be leading causes of death. Chronic conditions are exacerbated by climate change, with extreme heat and air pollution increasing risks for asthma, heat stroke, and other illnesses.
Malnutrition and Food Security
Malnutrition remains a foundational health risk, especially in low-income countries. Unsafe living conditions, lack of clean water, and poor sanitation contribute to high rates of preventable illness.
Vaccine Coverage Gaps Childhood vaccination coverage, including the DTP3 vaccine, has not returned to pre-pandemic levels in many regions. This gap threatens to reverse progress made in reducing infectious disease rates.
Health Inequities
The WHO reports that progress in global health is uneven, with millions at risk of preventable deaths due to lack of access to essential health services and protection from emergencies. Addressing health inequities is crucial for sustainable improvement.
Next Steps
Governments, health organizations, and communities must act urgently to strengthen health systems, invest in research, and prioritize prevention. The World Health Summit2025 in Berlin will serve as a platform for global stakeholders to set agendas and mobilize resources for a healthier future.
