Laura Sharman 23 February 2022

Report calls for stronger action on major health risk factors

Report calls for stronger action on major health risk factors image
Image: Nopphon_1987 / Shutterstock.com

The Government's current approach to tackling the leading risk factors for ill health is 'insufficient' to deliver on its key targets, according to a new report.

Published by the Health Foundation, the report calls on the Government to to take stronger action on major health risk factors in its upcoming white paper on ‘health disparities’.

Its analysis of the major health risk factors such as childhood obesity, smoking and harmful alcohol use shows trends are going 'in the wrong direction'.

It found that recent policies focus mainly on trying to change individuals’ behaviour, even though evidence shows ‘population-level’ interventions are more effective in tackling major risk factors for ill health.

It also argues these policies must be underpinned by wider action to improve the circumstances in which people live such as reducing factors such as poverty and poor housing.

Grace Everest, policy fellow at the Health Foundation, said: ‘If the Government is serious about achieving its levelling up mission on healthy life expectancy – not to mention the targets that have been set on obesity and tobacco – then it urgently needs to shift its approach.

'Government’s focus needs to be on population-level policies that aim to alter the environments in which people live - including taxation, regulation, and public spending - which should be implemented alongside more targeted interventions to support those most in need. Wider action is also needed to address the root causes of poor health and widening inequalities.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Public Health Principal

Oxfordshire County Council
£63576 - £67003
Oxfordshire County Council is seeking a skilled Public Health Principal for a full-time, fixed-term maternity cover. Based in Central Oxford with hybrid working (approximately two days per week in-office), this senior role leads the Live Well Promote and Oxford
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Senior Property and Asset Manager - Braintree District Council

Essex County Council
Negotiable
Senior Property and Asset Manager - Braintree District CouncilBraintree District CouncilPermanent, Full TimeFrom £65,433 to £71,436 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Senior Planning Projects Officer

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Negotiable
Help shape the future of our borough - from idea to delivery, you'll lead projects that make our neighbourhoods greener, fairer and better places to l England, London, City of London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council

Deputy Procurement Manager

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
£46,206 - £55,992 per annum
Can you see yourself playing an important role in leading the team who procure private sector properties (PRS) and long-term temporary accommodation for homeless families across Richmond and Wandsworth? If so, this is a unique opportunity to work for a gr London, Wandsworth
Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth

Residential Assistant

Essex County Council
£25081.00 - £25395.00 per annum
Residential AssistantPermanent, Full Time£25,081 up to £25,395 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council
Linkedin Banner