AIA announced on 22 February the launch of its AIA One Billion campaign with the goal to enthuse 1bn people to focus on improving mental health, physical health, environmental health and financial inclusion by 2030.
Across Asia, the numbers of people experiencing anxiety, depression and other mental issues have shown a sharp rise during the pandemic. The AIA Save Smarter Study 2021 showed that 70% of respondents said COVID-19 had negatively impacted their social life and 39% felt that their mental health had suffered.
In tandem with the growth in wealth and affluence among Asian populations in recent years, lifestyle-related diseases have increased, making up more than 70% of all deaths. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, diabetes, respiratory and heart disease, as well as mental conditions and disorders are on the rise, fuelled by modifiable factors such as lack of physical activity, poor nutrition, smoking and excess alcohol consumption.
At the same time, the World Health Organization has warned that climate change will increase morbidity and mortality, particularly in Asia, with the environment being increasingly identified as a significant cause of disease with research linking NCDs with environmental factors
By starting now to actively engage people to adopt healthier lifestyles, AIA said it aims to help create a more sustainable future for society at large.
The initiative plans to educate, inspire and support the communities in the 18 markets AIA has a presence in to improve people’s physical, mental and environmental wellness while championing financial inclusion through partnerships, events, community programmes and campaigns, such as improving financial literacy among underprivileged segments.