Nearly a quarter of doctors, on average, are older than 55, according to a WHO report drawing on the latest available data from 122 countries. The agency released its findings on 18 September.

WHO projects a global shortage of 11.1 million health workers by 2030. It says ageing staff and increasing demand from older populations are adding pressure, despite growth in the overall workforce.

The report also describes large differences between regions. WHO calls for stronger planning, training and retention, with country data used to guide decisions.

Source: WHO · Source date: 2026-09-18.

News brief compiled from the linked source.

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