This March, Public Health England is asking ‘How are you?’ to adults across the country, as part of a groundbreaking new campaign. Charlotte Rixon reports

‘One You’ is a new, nationwide campaign from Public Health England (PHE) designed to help people reduce the impact of modern day living on their risk for serious diseases.

Government figures show that behaviours such as smoking, eating unhealthily, exceeding alcohol guidelines and lack of physical activity are responsible for around 40 per cent of all deaths in England, costing the NHS more than £11 billion per year.

Studies show that adopting healthy living habits in middle age can double the chances of good health at the age of 70; however, modern life often encourages bad habits, due to factors such as bigger portion sizes, deskbound jobs and long commutes.

Tailored support

Launching this month, One You invites adults to reappraise their daily behaviour through an interactive online quiz called ‘How Are You?’ The quiz provides individuals with tailored recommendations for improving their health, based on their results, together with signposting to resources that can help them take action.

“One You is designed to help every individual identify not only their risks but also the pressures they face in their life and then support them with personalised tools and advice,” said Professor Sir Muir Gray, campaign clinical advisor.

Unprecedented reach

To ensure the campaign achieves an unprecedented reach, PHE has partnered with several large organisations, including Asda and Slimming World, while adults around the country will be targeted through a series of TV, outdoor and digital promotions.

PSNC is encouraging pharmacies to support the campaign by displaying promotional materials, signposting to the quiz and advising on healthy lifestyles. Pharmacy teams can order a toolkit, by calling: 0300 123 1019, which is open until 8 May 2016 or while stocks last. Multiple pharmacy employees should check with head office before ordering. To find out more, visit: www.nhs.uk/oneyou.