British epidemiologist; Chief Medical Officer for England since 2019
A comprehensive review links vaping to respiratory and other health harms in children and young people, with warnings about pregnancy exposure. UK officials are urged to extend restrictions to limit flavours and marketing to protect youths while continuing to support smoking cessation for adults.
Public health authorities push for tougher controls on unhealthy food, banning fast-food outlets near schools, cracking down on junk-food advertising, and mandating healthy-food reporting. MPs argue prevention must come before treatment as obesity costs rise and NHS pressures mount. Several reports underline consumer demand for healthier choices and better access to affordable, local food.
The NHS has been forced to confront ongoing summer pressures as heatwaves drive higher A&E attendances, equipment failures, and drought-related health risks. Officials say planning for summer pressures is now essential, with public awareness campaigns and infrastructure upgrades in focus.