Targeted healthcare investment could prevent 739,000 deaths in Brazil

Targeted healthcare investments in Brazil could prevent 739,000 premature deaths and increase the country's GDP by more than R$1 trillion by 2050, according to a study by the McKinsey Health Institute.

The research, titled ‘A saúde das nações: saúde mais forte, economias mais fortes’, was presented in San José, Costa Rica. Brad Herbig, the institute's health data director, emphasized that increasing funding is insufficient without directing resources toward scientifically proven, cost-effective actions. He stated, “It is crucial to look at scientific evidence and ensure that it occupies a central place in the spaces where decisions are made.”

The study analyzed approximately 300 evidence-based interventions addressing 90 diseases and 27 risk factors. In Brazil, these interventions could increase life expectancy to 85 years within five years. The report notes that 59% of the total impact in the country would stem from prevention, such as fiscal policies to discourage the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and ultra-processed foods. Other key areas include blood pressure monitoring, weight control, cancer treatment, and psychiatric medication availability.