Impact of Health Outcomes on Economic Performance in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Using panel data from 46 Sub-Saharan Countries, this study employed Descriptives statistics, Correlation, Bound test for cointegration, Panel ARDL analysis to analysed the data by examining how health outcomes affect economic performance in Sub-Saharan. The study was motivated by the growing recognition that health is an important component of human capital development and a critical determinant of productivity, labor efficiency, and sustainable economic growth. Despite various healthcare reforms and increased investments in the health sector across the region, many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa continue to experience poor health outcomes, including low life expectancy and high under-five mortality rates, which may hinder economic performance. Against this background, the study investigated the extent to which selected health outcome indicators influence economic growth in the region. The findings indicates that life expectancy, under-five mortality, health expenditure and Population have significant impact on economic growth. The study recommends among others that Authorities in Sub-Saharan Africa should place more emphasis on measurable improvements in life expectancy and reductions in under-five mortality by adopting targeted, high-impact health interventions.