It also gives them the chance to play a fuller part in the civil and cultural life. Such rights and opportunities underpin and extend the dividends that flow from better health, including greater labour productivity, demographic change and higher educational attainment. Conversely, poor health undermines growth, as it places an economic burden on individuals, companies and governments. Because health is a key measure of economic and social development, governments invest in comprehensive policies that include national health strategies, plans, governance instruments and systems.