Our Impact
Our work means millions of people are living longer, healthier lives.
In over 80 countries, we’re advancing public health by addressing the world’s leading preventable causes of death, disease and injury.
Our impact includes millions of deaths averted from cancer and heart disease, road crashes, drug overdose and more–and stronger public health systems and local expertise to improve population health well into the future.
Learn more about our measurable impact and read real-world examples through our dedicated issue pages below.
Where we’re having impact
Heart disease, cancer, diabetes, road traffic crashes, overdose, lead poisoning and air pollution kill tens of millions of people each year. Their deaths are largely preventable.
Vital Strategies works with governments and partners to reduce exposure to the risks that drive poor health and premature death. Our impact is focused on three interconnected areas where evidence shows action can save lives, strengthen health systems and protect communities.
Promoting Health
Reducing consumption of unhealthy products that drive preventable disease.
We support efforts to reduce tobacco use, harmful alcohol consumption and unhealthy diets, easing the burden of noncommunicable diseases on people, health systems and economies.
Our work has led to millions of fewer smokers and reduced alcohol and soda consumption across large populations.
Preventing Harm
Reducing preventable deaths from road traffic crashes, overdose and violence.
We support health-centered, evidence-based approaches that reduce risk, strengthen prevention and response systems, and protect people from injury, violence and overdose.
Our work has led to safer road design in dozens of cities, reduced speeding and drink driving, fewer deaths from gender-based violence, thousands of fewer overdoses, and more.
Protecting Communities
Protecting people from environmental and urban health threats.
We support efforts that reduce exposure to air pollution, extreme heat and toxic hazards and help create safer, healthier environments in the places people live, work, learn and play.
Our work has led to more climate resilient cities, stronger surveillance systems to detect childhood lead poisoning and more.
Lasting impact at scale
By working in partnership with governments and civil society organizations, our work helps reduce avoidable deaths, strengthen public health systems and build healthier, more resilient communities for the long term.
We apply science and policy solutions to strengthen health-centered responses and protect people from harm.
