Although Europeans are healthier than ever, there are still big differences
between various groups, with each having its own specific challenges and
One such group is the elderly. EU Health Strategy seeks to foster good
health as people age, through measures promoting healthy lifestyles and
preventing disease throughout a person's life. It also emphasises the
importance of considering gender specific differences and improving the health
of young people.
children and young people
To encourage young people to adopt healthy lifestyles early in life, the
European Commission is taking action on key issues such as nutrition and
physical activity, alcohol, mental health, tobacco, sexual health, healthy
environments, health inequalities, drugs and injury prevention.
Biological differences between men and women can affect their
health in different ways , with problems requiring different
Also, even with illnesses and diseases that affect both sexes, health
outcomes and access to healthcare differ between men and women.
By 2025 more than 20% of Europeans will be 65 or over, with a
particularly rapid increase in the number of over 80s.
Older people clearly have different
healthcare requirements and as the population gets older, health systems
need to adapt so they can provide adequate care.