The Office for Health Improvement and Disparities has launched, putting prevention at the heart to help people live longer, healthier and happier lives.

The government says that new body marks a distinct shift in focus at the heart of government in addressing the unacceptable health disparities that exist across the country and will help to reduce the pressure on the health and care system as work is done to reduce the backlog and put social care on a long-term sustainable footing.

Led by Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty, the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities will co-ordinate an ambitious programme across central and local government, the NHS and wider society, drawing on expert advice, analysis and evidence, to drive improvements in the public’s health.

Data shows that men in the most deprived areas in England are expected to live nearly 10 years fewer than those in the least deprived. Women in the same areas can expect to live seven years fewer.

Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said: “The pandemic has laid bare the health disparities we face not only as a country, but as communities and individuals. This must change and this body marks a new era of preventative healthcare to help people live healthier, happier and longer lives.

“The Office for Health Improvement and Disparities will be the driving force across government, supported by communities, academics, industry and employers, to level up the health of our nation, which will reduce the pressure on our NHS and care services.”