The average life expectancy in Saudi Arabia has seen a substantial increase, reaching 77.6 years, compared to 74 years in 2016. This positive development is attributed to comprehensive efforts and initiatives, particularly the integration of health promotion principles into various policies and aspects of daily life.
1. Health Sector Transformation Program Report: The information on the rise in life expectancy is sourced from a report by the Health Sector Transformation Program, a key component of Vision 2030 with a focus on health transformation.
2. Impactful Policies and Decisions: The report credits the increased life expectancy to strategic policies, including the promotion of a walking culture, reduction of salt in foods, disclosure of calorie information, and other health-oriented initiatives. Efforts to enhance health services and prevent health risks have also played a significant role.
3. National Institute for Health Research: In 2023, the Council of Ministers approved the establishment of the National Institute for Health Research, reflecting a commitment to advancing healthcare research and innovation.
4. Transformational Initiatives: The launch of health clusters, the National Platform for Health and Insurance Exchange Services (Nphies), and other initiatives have contributed to a more holistic and effective healthcare system, aligned with the Value-Based Healthcare model.
5. Shifa Platform Impact: More than 7,233 cases benefited from the Shifa platform in 2023, marking a nearly three percent increase from the previous year. Over 300,000 successful internal and external referrals were completed through the Saudi Center for Medical Appointments and Referrals.
6. Preventive Measures and Early Detection: Emphasizing the principle of 'prevention is better than treatment,' the report highlights over five million people undergoing exploratory obesity screening, one million cases of early diabetes detection, and 160,000 women participating in early breast cancer screening, resulting in 654 early detection cases.
