The UK government published a White Paper entitled ’Choosing Health’ on November 16 2004 which outlines a number of measures aimed at improving public health in the United Kingdom.
There were an unprecedented number of responses to the four month long consultation with some 150,000 people responding directly or taking part in local discussions or surveys.
The white paper identifies key priorities as obesity, smoking, alcohol and sexual health.
The key recommendations of the white paper were;
Smoking
By the end of 2008 all enclosed public places will be smoke free. Any bar or restaurant preparing and serving food will be smoke-free.
Tighter advertising of tobacco and government consultation on using picture warnings on tobacco products.
Obesity
By mid 2005 all processed foods will be clearly labelled to indicate fat, sugar and salt content.
Regulator to look at how foods are advertised to children leading, it is envisaged, to voluntary restrictions on Junk food adverts. If the measures fall short of the governments desires then legislation would be considered in 2007.
Schools to provide healthier meals free fruit and sport
with EUR 1.4bn to be invested in Physical Education.
Sexual health
National campaign targeted at those at greatest risk of infection or unplanned pregnancy.
By 2008 everyone referred to a sexual health clinic will have an appointment within 48hours.
National Chlamydia screening by 2007.
Alcohol
Rules will be strengthened about alcohol advertising, particularly those aimed at under aged drinkers.
Alcohol manufacturers urged to include messages on products to promote sensible drinking.
Mental Health
Tackle inequalities experienced between black and minority ethnic communities in their access to mental health care cases.
new guidelines to be published by 2005 on how to manage mild mental health problems in the workplace.
2.7 million accidents result in people seeking hospital treatment each year in the UK, and accidental injury is one of the leading cause of child death. The White Paper promises to introduce information campaigns on how young people in particular can avoid accidents, and the government will work with the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (an EPHA member) to look at new ways of delivering accident-prevention messages.
Fact Sheets on various public health issues accompanied the White paper:
Obesity
Alcohol
Diet and Nutrition
Inequalities
Mental health
Physical Activity
Sexual Health
Substance abuse
Tobacco
Accidents
EPHA members Royal College of Physicians response to the Public Health White Paper.
