Core Health Indicators in the WHO European Region 2019. Special focus: Health 2020

2019

Updated: The document was updated on 23 December 2019.

The seventh edition of Core health indicators provide valuable measurements for monitoring progress towards the achievement of Health 2020 targets in the 53 Member States of the WHO European Region. WHO’s Thirteenth General Programme of Work, 2019–2023, cites the ability to collect and analyse data as being critical to WHO’s work to improve health through the life course. This publication includes information on key health domains such as health status, determinants of health, risk factors, health systems and service utilization. The information is derived from data routinely submitted to WHO by national health and statistical authorities and other international agencies, under the umbrella of the European Health Information Initiative, a multi-member initiative of 40 partners, mostly Member States.

The information in this publication shows the diversity and magnitude of public health issues and challenges in the Region. However, as Core health indicators has demonstrated from its inception in 2012 to the current edition, the Region is making good progress in meeting many of these challenges. The Region can be proud of the significant achievements observed in relation to various health issues, including the increase in life expectancy and the reduction of premature  mortality from major noncommunicable diseases. The Health 2020 policy framework is shaping national health policies in the Region and improving the well-being of the European population.

The seventh edition of Core health indicators coincides with the start of implementation of the new Joint Monitoring Framework (JMF). The Regional Office developed the JMF in response to Member States’ and our partners’ need for a means of easing the burden of reporting on indicators and themes that are aligned across Health 2020, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases 2013–2020.

While the special theme of this publication is Health 2020, this alignment is reflected in the use of a colour coding system (shown below). The JMF offers a unique opportunity to promote intersectoral action, accelerate action on the priorities of Health 2020 and inform policy-making processes in the Region.