Noncommunicable diseases, risk factors, commercial determinants

Abstract

Unhealthy diet is an important risk factor for chronic diseases. Often this is seen as an individual level problem, but what we eat to a large extent is determined by complex, external factors, that lie outside the direct scope of control of individuals. In this plenary, the link between the commercial determinants of health, diet, and chronic diseases will be explored with a focus on positive action and what can be done concretely to improve our food systems and diets and thereby our health. The topic will be addressed from several angles, looking e.g., at what policy and legislation can achieve, how civil society can contribute, and how we can empower individuals through improved health literacy. Moderators: Josep Figueras, Director European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies Nicole Mauer, European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies Introductory keynote speaker: Iveta Nagyova, President EUPHA and Head of the Department of Social and Behavioural Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, PJ Safarik University, Kosice, Slovakia Speakers/Panellists: Mark Petticrew, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK Amandine Garde, Public Health and School of Law and Social Justice, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK Simon Bacon, Concordia University, Montreal, Canada