COVID-19 HEALTH

Covid-19 effects in the new world

In recent years, the global concern for healthcare has spurred significant advancements in health research and techniques aimed at disease prevention. However, the COVID-19 pandemic of 2019 brought widespread disruptions, with prolonged periods of isolation, economic downturns, and devastating loss of lives and livelihoods. This cascade of challenges took a toll on both physical and mental health. Despite these setbacks, there have been notable strides in health science and record-keeping systems, empowering individuals to better manage their health and seek equilibrium.

Depression rate of OECD countries before and after COVID-19 pandemic

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The "Health at a Glance 2023" report delivers a stark portrayal of the depression rates across 14 OECD countries, shedding light on the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global mental health. Through visually compelling bar and pie charts, the report highlights the significant shifts in depression rates from 2019 to 2020, offering a sobering insight into the pandemic's toll on mental well-being. These findings underscore the critical importance of addressing depression amidst the ongoing challenges of COVID-19. As societies grapple with the aftermath of the pandemic, prioritizing mental health support and interventions is paramount in fostering resilience and facilitating recovery on a global scale.


Data Source: Health at a Glance 2023: OECD indicators

The period spanning 2019 to 2020 witnessed a staggering increase in depression rates globally, paralleling the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2019, the average depression rate stood at approximately 7.8%, a figure that surged dramatically to around 18.5% by 2020. This sharp escalation underscores the pandemic's profound impact on mental well-being. Countries like the United States, Mexico, Greece, Italy, and Spain experienced significant spikes in depression rates, more than doubling from 2019 to 2020. Challenges in managing the pandemic, including high infection rates, overwhelmed healthcare systems, economic instability, and social disruption, exacerbated mental health vulnerabilities.

Social isolation emerged as a critical driver of depressive symptoms, exacerbated by lockdown measures and social distancing protocols. Economic uncertainty fueled stress and anxiety, particularly in countries like the United States, Mexico, and Japan, where job losses and financial strain were prevalent.

Disparities in access to mental health services widened during the pandemic, amplifying existing inequalities. Fear of contracting COVID-19 and uncertainties surrounding its consequences further contributed to heightened levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms globally.

Addressing these challenges demands comprehensive interventions prioritizing mental health support, reducing social isolation, and mitigating the economic impact of the pandemic to foster resilience and well-being in affected populations.

Digital Health: Pioneering Solutions Amidst the Global Pandemic

Amidst the challenges of COVID-19, digital health surged forward as a vital solution. Telemedicine, contact tracing apps, and virtual consultations became essential tools, transforming healthcare delivery. This rapid shift highlighted the resilience of the healthcare sector and paved the way for a future where digital innovations play a central role in enhancing healthcare accessibility and effectiveness worldwide.

Data Source: Digital Health Worldwide

The provided digital health data paints a compelling picture of the evolving landscape of healthcare technology and investment. Over the period from 2019 to 2024, the data reveals a consistent and substantial increase in healthcare expenditure dedicated to digital health initiatives. This upward trajectory underscores a growing recognition of the importance of technology in healthcare delivery and management.

The data highlights a significant year-over-year growth rate in healthcare spending, indicating a rising priority placed on digital health solutions. For example, between 2019 and 2020, there was a notable surge in expenditure from $175 billion to $216 billion. This steep increase suggests a strategic response to emerging healthcare challenges, including those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The continued growth in healthcare expenditure, reaching $523 billion by 2024, reflects a sustained commitment to advancing healthcare through technological innovation. This investment demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing healthcare challenges and leveraging digital solutions to improve patient outcomes and enhance accessibility. Furthermore, the data underscores the transformative potential of digital health technologies in shaping the future of healthcare delivery. By investing in digital health initiatives, healthcare systems aim to bolster resilience, adaptability, and efficiency in responding to evolving patient needs and emerging healthcare trends.

Covid-19 pandemic impacts on world's labour force

Economic Outlook 114 covers annual and quarterly data from 1960 until 2025. The OECD Economic Outlook analyses the major economic trends over the coming years as well as market forecasts and projections. It provides in-depth coverage of the main economic issues and the policy measures required to foster growth in each member country.


Data source: Economic Outlook 114

The bar graph illustrates the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) trends of five major economies, namely the United States (USA), China, Japan, Germany, and India, over a ten-year period from 2015 to 2024. Overall, the graph demonstrates varying degrees of economic performance among the selected countries. While the United States and China experience steady GDP growth throughout the period, Japan and Germany show relatively stable but moderate growth. India stands out with significant and consistent economic expansion over the decade.
In 2015, the United States boasted the highest GDP among the depicted countries, reaching approximately $18 trillion. Over the following years, the US economy continued its upward trajectory, surpassing $22 trillion by 2024. China, with a GDP of around $11 trillion in 2015, witnessed rapid economic growth, surpassing $15.5 trillion by the end of the period. This remarkable expansion reflects China's emergence as a global economic powerhouse. Japan and Germany, with initial GDPs of approximately $4.5 trillion and $3.5 trillion, respectively, in 2015, demonstrated relatively stable growth patterns. Both countries experienced gradual increases in GDP, with Japan reaching around $4.95 trillion and Germany around $3.95 trillion by 2024. India, with a GDP of $2.2 trillion in 2015, exhibited the most remarkable growth among the depicted countries. With consistent expansion over the decade, India's GDP surpassed $2.65 trillion by 2024, highlighting its rapid economic development.
In conclusion, the bar graph illustrates the diverse GDP trends of five major economies from 2015 to 2024. While the United States and China showcase steady growth, Japan and Germany demonstrate moderate expansion. India emerges as the standout performer, experiencing significant and consistent economic growth throughout the period.