The UN recently released details of its 17 sustainable development goals and 169 associated targets for 2030 (see: https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/post2015/transformingourworld). What do RG members think about the realistic attainment of these goals/targets and the extent to which they may reduce infectious and non-communicable diseases in regions where these are major public health problems?
Just some thoughts to share for now. I admire all the wonderful goals, but they are very difficult to attain.
"We will equally accelerate the pace of progress made in fighting malaria, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, hepatitis, Ebola and other communicable diseases and epidemics, including by addressing growing anti-microbial resistance and the problem of unattended diseases affecting developing countries." - A very noble goal but to be realistic, it's very difficult to attain since viruses are able to convert to more pathogenic strains.
"We are committed to the prevention and treatment of non-communicable diseases, including behavioural, developmental and neurological disorders, which constitute a major challenge for sustainable development." - A very noble goal but it's very difficult to achieve. Not just the poor, but even the 'educated and the haves' are not spared by NCDs, because of their life styles that they continue to practice, not exercising self-control, and not disciplining themselves to exercise physically.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avian/gen-info/flu-viruses.htm
This agenda looks very ambitious.
"to end poverty and hunger". Completely?
"to protect the planet from degradation". This would be possible if we sacrifice our GDP and population growth, and still this will be not sufficient. We have already activated irreversible processes in Earth change. This is not only climate change and pollution stock. We over-harvest Earth's renewable resources (like fish) and we deplete exhaustible resources (oil, gas, etc).
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