The contribution of health and health systems to other sustainable development goals. An overview of the evidence on co-benefits.

backgroundWhile the effects of other sectors on health outcomes have been recognised, the co-benefits that arise from health or health systems to other sectors have received far less attention.

objectiveThis study summarizes findings from a special issue in Health Policy documenting evidence of co-benefits from health and health systems to other Sustainable Development Goals: poverty, education, work and economic growth, gender equality, reducing inequalities, responsible meat consumption, climate action, and strong institutions.

methodsAfter providing a conceptual framework, we summarise evidence on co-benefits from the nine articles of the special issue, which were written as narrative reviews.

resultsThe articles generally find strong evidence of co-benefits from health and health systems to other SDGs. Positive effects of health and health systems were consistently found for education and labour market outcomes, both of which contribute to poverty reduction. Health contributes towards better and inclusive institutions by promoting social capital, political participation and supporting peace. Improved maternal, reproductive, and sexual health lead to enhanced labour participation and educational investment among women. Health system financing has redistributive properties which can serve to reduce inequalities. Health effects on macroeconomic growth were more difficult to establish empirically, though recent evidence is supportive. Health and health systems can also generate environmental co-benefits. Green interventions can reduce carbon footprint of health care. Promotion of healthy behaviours that reduce meat consumption can generate environmental co-benefits through their impact on climate, biodiversity, water use and pollution.

conclusionsOverall, this evidence suggests that investing in health contributes to achieving other societal goals.