Translating Prevention and Health Promotion into Action in Research, Health Care and Society | Abstract

Demographic change, an increasing shortage of skilled workers, the growing burden of chronic diseases, and rising climate-related health risks create an urgent need to systematically strengthen prevention and health promotion in Germany. Despite high levels of health care spending, population health outcomes remain below expectations, as the health care system continues to focus predominantly on curative and medical interventions. The German Science and Humanities Council therefore is advocating a health-related cultural change that recognizes prevention as a systemically relevant component and promotes closer integration of science, policymaking, health care, and society. Central priorities include intersectoral strategies consistent with a “Health in All Policies” approach, evidence-based decision-making supported by improved data infrastructures, strengthened health communication and health literacy, the expansion of scientific infrastructures for prevention research, and the effective use of interprofessional capacities. Financial and regulatory incentive structures are needed to establish prevention as a long-term investment. The position paper identifies key interfaces at which science can interact effectively with politics, the health care system, and society to create health-promoting conditions, reduce health inequalities, and sustainably improve population health and quality of life.