Wales needs a 'prevention-first approach to health as a priority

WALES' top doctor has said the country must switch towards a prevention-first approach to health as an urgent priority.

- ELLIE GOSLEY

Prof Isabel Oliver

In an annual report, Professor Isabel Oliver, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) for Wales, said that this move must be taken to address stagnating life expectancy and mounting pressures on health services.

The report revealed there has been a decline in life expectancy and a rise of people living with preventable illnesses in Wales. Six months into her role, the CMO said she has been struck by the scale of the challenge when it comes to health.

The Reflecting On Our Health report for 2024-25 recognised a decline in life expectancy, especially in deprived areas, with people now living for more years of their life with ill-health.

It found that the average number of years that people in Wales can expect to live in good health is declining among women in particular.

It highlights that around 75% of deaths of people under the age of 75 in Wales are preventable.

The CMO said that Wales needs to make prevention a priority if the health of the nation is to improve.