Global Scans · Population · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT?: The global population is expected to reach 8.5 billion in 2030, up 1 billion from 2016. Western economies are declining in numbers and emerging economies witnessing burgeoning growth.

• [New] While the global population is becoming increasingly internet connected - there are over 6 billion internet users as of 2026 - many are still accessing the internet though with just a phone, no desktop, and certainly no gaming console. Glimpse
• [New] Humanity faces the dual challenge of ensuring food security for a projected population of 10 billion by 2050, requiring a 70% increase in food production, while addressing the needs of over 735 million people currently experiencing hunger. PortfoPal
• [New] Global urbanization will see 68% of the population in cities by 2050, demanding sustainable infrastructure to address 70% of global emissions and 60-80% energy use. Ainvest
• [New] Half the world's population is projected to be overweight or obese, diseases which increase the risk of serious conditions such as heart disease and cancer. University of Bristol
• [New] Digital wallet users are projected to reach over 5 billion globally, representing substantial global population penetration and highlighting the unstoppable momentum toward digital payment adoption. Billfold
• [New] The population aged 65 and older is projected to increase by more than 30% in the next decade, raising demands for physician-led care across complex, chronic conditions. Missouri State Medical Assoc.
• [New] 2026 will be a decisive M&A year as EHRs, HIEs, and population-health vendors absorb adjacent assets to offer broader, AI-enhanced platforms. Signify Research
• [New] Over the next four years, the 65-plus population in the U.S. will increase by 50%. Medical Economics
• [New] A shrinking global population poses an existential threat, hindering humanity's collective consciousness and capacity for progress. The Times Of India
• [New] As the world population increases and healthcare demand rises faster than the workforce, automation will play a crucial role in maintaining access to care. CyberNews
• [New] The working-age population is projected to expand steadily through 2050, in stark contrast to declines expected in China, Thailand and Vietnam. Khmer Times - Insight into Cambodia
• [New] Africa will become the last engine of global population growth and home to the world's youth population. 2.024 US Insti
• [New] As the baby boomer generation continues to age, however, the 80-and-over population will increase considerably from the mid-2030s, rising from 6.1 million in 2024 to around 8.5 to 9.8 million in 2050. Federal Statistical Office
• [New] If net immigration is moderate, the economically active population will drop to 41.2 million by 2070, and could even fall to 37.1 million if net migration is low. Federal Statistical Office

Last updated: 25 December 2025