We know that prevention works, that it’s cost-effective and that it can save lives. However, despite the clear economic and social benefits of investing, action on prevention lags behind, while preventative services are often the first to be cut in times of crisis.

This report is designed as our first statement on why, in the context of an ageing world and the COVID-19 pandemic, this needs to change.

The analysis finds that all G20 countries have improved their health outcomes in the last 20 years, but not at equal rates. The biggest improvements in healthy life expectancy have been seen in countries where the state pays for a greater share of health spending, reducing the cost barriers for individuals.

Greater spending commitments can form the basis of longer-term prevention strategies that seek to:

• Democratise access to prevention, to alleviate health inequalities
• Inspire and engage policymakers, healthcare professionals and individuals to consider, support and access prevention
• Effectively utilise technology