Division 3.3 Priority actions for the second objective ‘Promote health’

Activities under this section are designed to prevent major diseases and reduce health inequalities across the EU, by tackling key health determinants such as nutrition and physical activity, alcohol, tobacco and drug consumption as well as social and environmental health determinants.

In 2009, priority actions under this objective will aim to contribute to reducing health inequalities within and between the EU Member States and regions; promoting the Health in All Policies approach as well as assessing and promoting sustainable health investment at national and regional level, therefore supporting the strategic themes outlined in the EU health strategy. Following the adoption of the Commission proposal for a Directive on patients’ rights in cross-border health care^f1, underlying issues raised by the proposal will be addressed. As regards health determinants, the focus will be in particular on determinants and settings affecting the health of children and young people.