The Health at a Glance: Europe 2024 report, published by the OECD and the European Union, outlines critical health trends and challenges across the EU, offering valuable insights for physiotherapists.

The report highlights a severe shortage of healthcare professionals, with an estimated deficit of 1.2 million doctors, nurses, and midwives across the EU in 2022. While not explicitly focused on physiotherapy, this shortfall points to a growing demand for allied health professionals to fill vital roles in healthcare delivery. Physiotherapists are uniquely positioned to step into advanced practice roles, offering expertise in rehabilitation, exercise prescription, and chronic disease management to support overburdened health systems.

Chronic disease prevention and healthy ageing are central themes of the report. By 2050, nearly 30% of the EU population will be aged 65 or older. While life expectancy beyond 65 now exceeds 20 years, more than half of these years are often lived with chronic illnesses or disabilities. The report notes that insufficient physical activity is a key risk factor, with only 22% of people aged over 65 meeting recommended activity levels.

The Europe Region of World Physiotherapy coordinated the EU-funded project InAbled Cities, aimed at promoting and enabling physical activities in open urban areas for people with physical disabilities with special focus on elderly people. You can read the Final Evaluation Report and see more information about the project finalised in 2023 here.

The health of Europe’s youth also emerges as a concern, with increasing rates of obesity and physical inactivity contributing to declining physical and mental health. Over 20% of 15-year-olds in the EU are now classified as overweight or obese, with inadequate physical activity compounding health issues. 

The report underscores that lifestyle factors, such as poor nutrition and physical inactivity, remain among the leading causes of mortality and morbidity in the EU. These risk factors accounted for 1.1 million deaths in 2021, highlighting the need for preventive strategies. 

Environmental issues, including air pollution, are also highlighted as pressing health concerns. Over 253,000 deaths in 2021 were attributed to fine particulate matter exposure. In this respect, the Europe Region of World Physiotherapy is also working to make physiotherapy an environmentally friendly profession. Learn more about its work in Physiotherapy and Sustainable Development.

The report paints a picture of both challenge and opportunity for physiotherapists. Whether through contributing to healthy ageing initiatives, addressing workforce shortages, or promoting physical activity across all age groups, physiotherapy has a pivotal role in shaping a healthier, more active Europe.

Read the full document and other resources here.