10 facts on the global burden of disease

October 2008

WHO/Pierre Virot

Collecting and comparing health data from across the globe is a way to describe health problems, identify trends and help decision-makers set priorities.

A recent study describes the state of global health by measuring the burden of disease – the loss of health from all causes of illness and deaths worldwide. It details the leading causes of deaths worldwide and in every region, and provides information on more than 130 diseases and injuries across the world.

Read more about the global burden of disease study findings

Related links

Director-General
Director-General and senior management

Governance of WHO
WHO Constitution, Executive Board and World Health Assembly

Media centre
News, events, fact sheets, multimedia and contacts

International travel and health
Publication on travel risks, precautions and vaccination requirements

World Health Report
Annual report on global public health and key statistics