Many of us consider our species, the human beings, as very intelligent, because we achieved a significant influence on the planet we live on. We subdued other living beings and we manipulate our planet as we see it fit. But how does the world status really look like if we have a look at some essential aspects of human life?
The fast majority of all human beings live in very harsh conditions and are struggling for survival: They 1. live in a conflict zone, 2. have been displaced, 3. lack safe drinking water, 4. face hunger, 5. breathe toxic air, 6. lack safe sanitation and/or 7. are vulnerable to climate change. While the struggle for survival affects mostly people in poorer countries, people in wealthier countries are struggling more with heavy 8. physical and 9. mental disorders.
Cancer whispers through lives, a quiet thief stealing away years, hopes, and loved ones. Its tendrils extend across continents and cultures, gripping individuals in a silent struggle that ranks as the second leading cause of death globally. This is not a distant threat, but a stark reality confronting millions who grapple with the complex web of this disease.
Obesity and overweight have reached alarming proportions globally, posing a serious threat to health and well-being. Since 1975, the number of overweight and obese individuals has nearly tripled, painting a concerning picture of an escalating epidemic. In 2016 alone, over 1.9 billion adults were overweight, and more than 650 million were classified as obese.
The IDF Diabetes Atlas (2021) reports that 10.5% of the adult population (20-79 years) has diabetes, with almost half unaware that they are living with the condition. By 2045, IDF projections show that 1 in 8 adults, approximately 783 million, will be living with diabetes, an increase of 46%.