OVERVIEW

After decades of struggling with public health issues, in 2010 Scotland was being described as the 'sick man of Europe', suffering higher mortality rates for cancer, heart disease and stroke than anywhere else in the UK. A study revealed that unhealthy living was almost universal in Scotland, with virtually every individual putting themselves at risk. Although it was fair to argue there had been improvements in death rates from major disease, in part due to initiatives such as the smoking ban, it became obvious that much more still needed to be done.

Three years on and after millions of pounds having been spent by the Scottish Government on education programmes and advertising campaigns, health overall struggles to improve. Scotland still has the lowest life expectancy in Western Europe with rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and cancer remaining amongst the highest in the world. Diabetes continues to increase at a rate of 10,000 a year, one in seven is on anti-depressants and alcohol consumption remains 20% higher than in the rest of the UK.

However, there is good news. Although obesity has significantly increased since 1995, levels have stabilised since 2008 and the smoking ban seems to have been a success in reducing smoking levels. No doubt it is hoped that if the minimum alcohol pricing challenges can be overcome, that too will have a positive impact on death rates. Continuing action on alcohol and smoking, encouragement of active living and healthy eating, plus promotion of mental health are imperative to ensure improvements are realised.

Recently the Scottish Government has declared that a 'fundamental rethink' is required to combat the massive health gap between rich and poor. A report by Scotland's Chief Medical Officer warned that flagship policies can create a widening of inequalities as the richer in society react positively whilst the less well-off resist. Latest figures show that Scotland has the widest health gap within Europe, with the poorest dying 20 years earlier than their wealthier counterparts. There needs to be concerted focus, not just on health initiatives but on efforts to improve the social and economic circumstances of the poorest.

The foundation of any public health programme has to be prevention. Promotion and education of healthy living are key drivers supported by innovative technologies such as health informatics, social marketing, assessment tools, telehealth and treatments. At Public Health Scotland, experts will highlight the current situation and future outlook for the health of the nation, and discuss possible strategies that can be employed to deliver the necessary improvements. Delegates will be given the opportunity to be fully informed of current thinking and practice, which can be implemented within their own initiatives to improve population health.