Khaberni - Japan topped the list of countries where youth enjoy the best health in the world in 2026, according to a global index that measures the general health level of youth, which is based on a range of factors including physical fitness, nutrition, lifestyle, and obesity levels, considering them a primary indicator of future health.
South Korea came second, followed by Switzerland, while Nordic countries such as Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland dominated the top ranks, thanks to strong health care systems, focus on health education, and promoting physical activity from an early age, The list also included Singapore and Australia, reflecting the ability of some developed countries to achieve good health outcomes despite modern life challenges.
Obesity's Relation to General Health
The report affirms that countries with low obesity rates among youth achieve higher results in health indices, while factors such as diet, physical activity, quality of health care, and health education play a fundamental role in improving the health of new generations.
Here is a list of the countries where youth enjoy the best health in the world for the year 2026:
Japan: 92.4 points
South Korea: 91.1 points
Switzerland: 90.3 points
Sweden: 89.7 points
Norway: 89.2 points
Netherlands: 88.9 points
Singapore: 88.5 points
Iceland: 88.0 points
Finland: 87.6 points
Australia: 87.1 points
The report indicates that investing in youth health is a crucial factor in the future of countries, as it is closely linked to productivity, economic stability, and quality of life, and highlights the importance of preventive policies, health education, and providing a supportive environment for an active and healthy lifestyle, to ensure building healthier and more capable generations to face future challenges.
