The North and South divide - health inequality exposed
Posted by TeamPC on 6 Sep 2017
The UK is facing a health inequality crisis. If you live in the North you are 20% more likely to die prematurely (before the age of 75), than if you live in the South.
How can this be progress?
Research study by the University of Manchester paints a bleak picture
The University of Manchester has published the results of its focus on health outcomes across the UK, and the findings are astounding.
The research reveals that Northerners are more likely to die prematurely than their Southern neighbours.
The increased rate of premature death is being blamed on significant health (and economic) inequality and resources being made available throughout the country – and the inability of successive Governments to deal with it.
Social marketing campaigns – a framework for change
The NHS has been using social marketing techniques to influence health and lifestyle behaviours for over 10 years now, but there is much more work to be done in tackling the root cause of this latest problem.
Social marketing is a behavioural change technique that encourages people in specific population groups to focus on how lifestyle adjustments and better choices can influence their future health outcome.
Encouraging people to make better choices
By promoting greater awareness of health issues, and encouraging people to take better care of themselves before a health problem ensues - whether that be to seek help, change a habit, or live their lives differently, social marketing helps to redress health inequality.
From tackling obesity and the causes behind it, encouraging regular exercise, raising the dangers of taking drugs and drinking excessively, to addressing anti-social issues, social marketing can (and is) changing lives.
Health equality is a right, not a privilege
It shouldn’t matter where you live, everyone deserves an equal chance in life – and that starts with health equality.
Whether the UK has the funds and/or resources to further tackle this problem head on, remains to be seen. In the meantime, let’s hope North/South divide doesn’t escalate.
We’re Perfect Circle – an open and honest social marketing agency that delivers life changing behavioural change campaigns. Visit us online at perfect-circle.co.uk
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