Introduction
Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3) aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. Achieving SDG 3 is fundamental to building prosperous societies, as health is both a prerequisite and an outcome of sustainable development.
Examples
Sports play an important role in advancing ODD 3 by promoting physical activity, mental health and social well-being. Here are just a few of the ways in which sports contribute:
- Sport and physical activity reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and certain cancers.
- Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.
- Sport has been associated with improved mental health, including reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Impact and potential
Sports help improve health by encouraging physical activity and mental well-being. They are a low-cost, powerful tool to reach people and promote healthy lifestyles, especially in underserved communities.