Originally published in EuroHealthNet Magazine, this JA PreventNCD article explores how commercial determinants of health influence the environments in which people live and the choices available to them. Written by members of the Joint Action, it argues that preventing non-communicable diseases requires looking beyond individual behaviour to the commercial and structural forces that shape health and health inequalities.
The article examines how the practices of industries linked to products such as tobacco, alcohol and unhealthy food can influence public policy, marketing and everyday environments. It highlights the importance of stronger regulation, accountability and cross-sector collaboration, with the aim of creating conditions in which healthier choices become easier and more accessible for everyone.
It also considers the potential of a Wellbeing Economy, where health, equity, social wellbeing and environmental sustainability are treated as central measures of progress rather than economic growth alone. The article highlights work within JA PreventNCD to better understand commercial determinants of health, strengthen accountability and explore how Wellbeing Economy approaches can support healthier and more equitable societies across Europe.
Read the full article in EuroHealthNet Magazine:
https://eurohealthnet-magazine.eu/can-we-put-health-before-profit-for-a-healthier-stronger-and-more-resilient-europe/