Health inequities: a persistent global challenge from past to future

Abstract

Health inequities remain one of the most pressing global challenges, deeply rooted in socio-economic, environmental, and technological factors. These disparities, historically influenced by colonial legacies and socio-economic inequality, persist into the present, with new challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change further widening them. Looking ahead, the rise of digital health technologies and worsening climate impacts present additional risks. This comment explores the historical, present, and future dimensions of health inequalities and offers evidence-based solutions, including strengthening health systems, addressing social determinants, building climate-resilient healthcare, and bridging the digital divide. Achieving health equity requires bold, systemic changes to ensure universal access to quality healthcare.