Pakistan, July 16 -- Global health funding is expected to drop to its lowest level in 15 years, as foreign aid cuts led by the United States trigger a sharp decline in support, a new study reveals. The report, published in The Lancet, warns that the world is now entering a "new era of global health austerity," impacting millions in low-income countries.

The research shows that after reaching a record $80 billion during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, total global health aid is projected to fall to just $39 billion this year. This would mark the lowest funding level since 2009, signaling a major shift in how global health challenges are supported.

Notably, the United States has slashed its international health funding by at least 67% in 2...