This chapter provides a comprehensive VCE Health and Human Development learning sequence on Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3 – Good health and wellbeing). It begins with an overview of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals, their interdependence, and why they matter for global health. The core of the chapter details the key features of SDG 3, separating outcome targets (e.g., reducing maternal mortality, ending preventable child deaths, ending epidemics of AIDS, TB, malaria, NTDs, reducing non‑communicable disease mortality, road‑traffic deaths, pollution‑related illness, and substance abuse) from action targets (e.g., universal health coverage, sexual and reproductive health services, early‑warning systems, research and development, investment in health workforce, tobacco‑control). Specific sub‑sections elaborate on maternal and child health (causes of maternal mortality, neonatal and under‑5 mortality, prevention actions), communicable diseases (AIDS, malaria, TB, neglected tropical diseases, hepatitis) and non‑communicable diseases (cardiovascular disease, cancer, respiratory disease, diabetes, mental health, road‑traffic injuries, pollution). The chapter also analyses the interrelationships between SDG 3 and six other SDGs (1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 12), explaining how poverty, hunger, education, gender equality, water & sanitation, and responsible consumption influence health outcomes. Throughout, key knowledge, skills, exam terminology, activities, quick‑quiz questions, and extended‑response prompts are provided to support VCE assessment preparation.
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Why the Sustainable Development Goals matter for global health and human development
Explains the purpose of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals, their interdependence, and how achieving them underpins improvements in health equity, poverty reduction, education, gender equality and peace.