The government has launched a call for evidence inviting views on how best to prevent, early diagnose, treat and manage the 6 major groups of conditions which drive ill health and contribute to the burden of disease in the population in England.
The 6 major health conditions - cancer, cardiovascular diseases including stroke and diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, dementia, mental ill health and musculoskeletal disorders - affect millions of people in England.
Recognising the pressure these conditions are putting on the NHS, the government is seeking views on a new strategy to tackle them that will focus not only on treatment but also on prevention.
Currently in England, 5.4 million people live with cardiovascular disease, around 8.6 million live with chronic respiratory disease and 8.2 million people live with mental health issues. And many of us suffering from one condition, also suffer from another. For example, 50% of people with a heart or lung condition also suffer from a musculoskeletal condition. 82% of people with cancer and 70% of people with mental ill health have at least one additional condition.
Richard Fuller MP said:
Tackling the major conditions that drive ill-health in England provides an enormous opportunity to improve the lives of millions of people and alleviate pressure on the health system.
Those suffering from one or more of the conditions outlined are urged to come forward to provide insight into their experiences of managing their health needs. The government is particularly interested to hear from those who suffer from, care for or provide treatment to people who suffer from multiple long-term conditions. This is to ensure the major conditions strategy is one that will better prevent, diagnose, manage and treat these conditions.
Contributions are also encouraged from those working in NHS bodies, local government, the voluntary and community sector, and wider industry, on how best to tackle suffering from one or more of these major conditions. Particularly, it is seeking perspectives on how government and the NHS can work better together with different organisations and sectors to improve the nation’s health.
The call for evidence, which can be accessed here, is open for 6 weeks and will close at 11.59pm on 27 June. The views and ideas gathered will inform the priorities and actions in the major conditions strategy.
