10 facts on ageing and the life course
September 2011
The ageing of the world's population - in developing and developed countries - is an indicator of improving global health. The world's elderly population - people 60 years of age and older - is 650 million. By 2050, the "greying" population is forecast to reach 2 billion.
Along with this positive trend, however, come special health challenges for the 21st century. Preparing health providers and societies to meet the needs of older populations is essential: training for health professionals on old-age care; preventing and managing age-associated chronic diseases; designing sustainable policies on long-term and palliative care; and developing age-friendly services and settings.
Related links
Events
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Preliminary Consultation on H5N1 Research Issues
16–17 February 2012 -
World Water Day
22 March 2012 -
World TB Day
24 March 2012
Corporate resources
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The world health report
Report on global public health and key statistics -
World health statistics report
WHO's annual compilation of data from its 193 Member States -
International travel and health
Publication on travel risks, precautions and vaccination requirements -
International Health Regulations (IHR)
Global rules to enhance national, regional and global public health security