You are currently viewing a topic page that is part of the Cluster Planning Support Portal (CPSP). Each topic page comprises (a) topic-specific strategic context; (b) signposting to data analyses relating to local health needs; and (c) improvement action options.
A. Strategic context
Consider the national strategic context for prioritising improvement action in this area (in conjunction with your health board’s annual plan and regional partnership board’s area plan). The strategic importance of a given topic is key to thinking about how our actions align with local or national initiatives and policies to deliver collective and measurable impacts on population health.
- A healthy balanced diet helps to maintain a healthy weight, as well as providing the nutrients needed for reducing the risk of many long-term conditions: diet accounts for 32% of attributable DALYs for cardiovascular disease and 12% of attributable DALYs for cancers in Wales (Health and its determinants in Wales; PHW 2018).
- Nutrition is important across the life course; nutrition in the first 1000 days (conception to age 2 years) can affect health outcomes in later life (Pediatrics. 2018 Feb;141(2). pii: e20173716).
- Inequality gaps appear to be widening in Wales for fruit and vegetable consumption, with those in the most deprived areas consuming less fruit and vegetables than those in the least deprived areas; this will reinforce inequities in health outcomes (Health and its determinants in Wales; PHW 2018).
- A healthier Wales: our plan for health and social care 2018 (WG 2018) highlights the need for a shift towards greater prevention and early intervention.
- The Eatwell guide was introduced by Welsh Government in October 2018 (WG 2018).
- Healthy weight: healthy Wales (WG 2018) is the Welsh Government long-term strategy to prevent and reduce obesity in Wales. The aim of the plan is to deliver healthy settings and environments to allow people of all ages to make healthy choices.
B. Data analyses
Consider statistical indicators and other evidence on population needs to compare your own position to that of others, both within and without your health board (where possible). If relevant, consider any additional local data requirements that might contribute to an informed decision on action.
- Indicator: Description of a recommended indicator relating to this topic, which would inform population needs assessment.
- Data source and link: Who produces the analysis and where to find the most current analysis on their website (NB the most current analysis may not utilise the most recent data).
- Documentation link: Where to find general advice on interpreting the analysis e.g. what is/ is not included, any caveats, etc.
C. Improvement actions
Identifying priority actions involves seeking and appraising evidence on effective and cost-effective improvement options. The below options are a starting point for considering interventions at practice, cluster/ professional collaborative or pan-cluster level. The make-up of your cluster and the stakeholders you work with is likely to influence the type of actions you take.
Reviewed by: VT/BM | Review date: 27/06/22 | Topic code: BFR-002