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Reid launches lifestyle consultation
John Reid has launched a nationwide consultation to educate the public about the lifestyle issues which can effect their own health.
Amid growing concern about issues such as obesity and sexually transmitted diseases, the health secretary called on Wednesday for a national debate about the ways the public can improve its own wellbeing.
He said there is a worrying trend in the health of the country - citing obesity, sexually transmitted diseases and cancer as areas of concern.
'With more doctors, more nurses, more beds and more hospitals, our staff have made huge strides in transforming the NHS," he said.
"This means real improvements in health - like a 10 per cent drop in cancer death rates and a fall of more than 23 per cent in heart-related deaths since 1996
'But I admit there are still worrying problems in preventable conditions like obesity and sexually transmitted infections. And more can be done on smoking.
"These are issues for all of us, not just for the government. We need a big debate about where government responsibility lies and where individuals must play a part in tackling these vital challenges."
Ban on smoking
The move came as ministers consider ways to embark on a wider campaign of disease prevention.
Measures under consideration include moves to restrict children's access to sweets and moves to increase condom use among the young.
One of the most divisive moves to be suggested could be restrictions on smoking in public places.
Whilst Reid has in the past rejected such a move, he is attempting to assess whether there is support for a ban in places such as bars and restaurants.
Reid insisted however that the document is "not setting out government policy". "It's asking questions in order to stimulate debate," he added.
Other less controversial measures suggested in the consultation include encouraging people to cycle to work.
Reid said the three month consultation will be used to draw up a white paper on the health of the nation.
The announcement has been welcomed by healthcare groups - who believe the message of prevention must be more clearly presented to the country.
Dame Yve Buckland, chairman of the Health Development Agency, said: "The health of the nation is the joint responsibility of individuals, the public sector and the government, so it's right that everyone has the chance to give their views on what would help them to live healthier lives.
"Prevention is better than cure, and it's never been more important that we turn the tide of largely preventable conditions, like obesity, that are threatening to swamp the country."
But critics say the government is attempting to interfere in the way people live their lives and will call on ministers to do more to improve the quality of healthcare and treatment rather than shift the onus onto the public themselves.
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