UK - Unhealthiest Nation in Europe?
 

Startling figures from the Association of Public Health Observatories reveal that the UK is the fattest EU member with the highest rates of teen pregnancies and the worse rates of female cancer survival and infant deaths. 

The report indicated that the West Midlands, has the highest percentage of obese adults standing at 29% (double the EU average of 14%) and higher than the average in Greater London of 19%.  

Similarly female cancer rate deaths in South East England were reported at 185 per 100,000, with North East England at 174 per 100,000.  Europe on the other hand has an average of 139.5 per 100,000. 

Although these figures may have altered slightly since the data was collected, it still provides a snap shot of the public health issues in England and highlights areas that need to be addressed.

Professor Sir Michael Marmot, public health expert, said the report highlighted "stark differences" in health across the EU.
"The behaviours that lead to obesity and teenage pregnancy, for example, arise from social conditions.
"This knowledge informs what we as a society can do at a local, regional, national and international level to create the conditions for greater health equity."

The Good News

Despite the figures highlighted above, evidence suggests that the picture is not all gloom.  Firstly, due to early smoking interventions, authors of the report point out that this has had a very positive impact on health outcomes.  Additionally, life expectancy rates in the UK are slightly better than Europe and we perform well at treating heart disease. 

Dr Claire Bradford who compiled the report said, "This type of data allows us to compare not just between countries but within countries and to look at what is going well and what is not.

"People that are able to influence which way we are going as a nation should look at this to decide on priorities and actions."

Clearly, there is still much to be done to tackle the obesity rates and social determinants of health in the UK.  Governments, local authorities, communities and individuals need to take responsibility and work together to improve health and bring about a positive change. 

The RSPH currently run a "Foundation Programme in Health Improvement" course, which offers candidates the opportunity of developing a firm foundation in health improvement . The programme is especially useful for those new to concepts of Public Health and Health Improvement who wish to gain a quick grasp and knowledge of this area.  For further information please contact Nicolette Smith