Section: Chronic diseases

Chronic diseases -> Aims of the section

The aim of the section is to increase and spread knowledge on chronic disease control. The section seeks to identify common approaches to develop the evidence and information base needed to guide policy and identify best practices for combating chronic diseases, and thus contributing to a sustainable and significant reduction of illness, disability and premature death. Furthermore, the section aims to lead efforts that help eliminate health disparities and negative socioeconomic consequences caused by chronic diseases and that promote health and well-being.

The strategic objectives are:

Research

To provide a platform for the exchange of research information and expertise, to stimulate new research activities and networking of researchers. To encourage the dissemination of scientific knowledge, experiences and best practices. To accelerate the translation of scientific findings into public health policy and practice.

Policy

To promote evidence-based social, environmental, health policies and system approaches that support healthy living for individuals, families, and communities. To raise awareness for chronic disease and ensure that fighting chronic disease and its consequences is included in and placed on top of the agenda of health care policies.

Practice

To stimulate programme and policy activities, build partner capacities, and establish tailored interventions. To encourage developing partnerships and collaborations with scientific communities, health care providers, civil society organisations and the private sector to promote collaboration for chronic disease prevention and control. To link regional, national and international networks to pursue common goals.

Training and education

To stimulate training and capacity building to develop a skilled, diverse, and dynamic public health workforce and network of partners. To identify the needs of public health experts for training and education. To develop guidance packages for chronic disease prevention and control.

HPV Action Network

The section represents EUPHA in the HPV Action Network. The aim of this network is to achieve the elimination of the cancers caused by Human papillomavirus (HPV) across the 53 countries covered by the WHO European region. The network was launched in December 2019 at a meeting in the EU Parliament (see here for more details). The network will work on four broad areas: gender-neutral HPV vaccination; cervical cancer screening programmes; cancer treatment; and professional and public education and awareness.