The Chief Public Health Officer's Report on The State of Public Health in Canada 2008

The Chief Public Health Officer's Report on The State of Public Health in Canada 2008 Dr. David Butler-Jones

We cannot rate our collective health and well-being by looking only at those who are healthiest. Nor can we focus only on averages, as these mask important differences between the least and most healthy. We must also consider those left behind: those who are less healthy, illiterate, on the streets, or have little or no resources.

A Few Words from Canada's Chief Public Health Officer

My first annual Report on the State of Public Health in Canada is intended to inform Canadians and stimulate discussion of the many factors that contribute to good health and what can be done individually and collectively to advance public health in Canada.

I am happy to report that the majority of Canadians enjoy good to excellent physical and mental health, reinforcing that Canada is one of the best places in the world in which to live. Thanks in part to public health efforts ― such as the introduction of mass immunization, and smoking cessation and seat-belt awareness programs ― we are living longer and have reduced our infant mortality rates.

Despite this progress, there are Canadians in every corner of the country who continue to experience high rates of injury, chronic or infectious diseases and addictions. These individuals are at a higher risk of poor health and premature death.  They are also more likely to need the health-care system for what are largely preventable health issues. Poor health also results in higher rates of absenteeism and lowers productivity in our workplaces.

While certain disadvantaged segments of the population have poorer health than most of us, none of us is immune to the health inequalities that limit our potential as individuals and as a nation. For this reason, my first report focuses on inequalities in health. With few exceptions, the evidence shows that people with better incomes, better education and better social supports enjoy better health than those with fewer social and economic opportunities.

We can change this. As a country, we have the evidence, the means and the talent to address the range of issues that can adversely affect the health and well-being of Canadians.  There are examples of policies and programs, both large and small, making real differences in the lives of Canadians and reducing both social and health inequalities. These successes provide a strong foundations from which we can build the healthiest nation with the smallest gap in health disparities. It is a goal well within our reach through a firm commitment by individuals, community members and decision-makers to effect change.

Dr. David Butler-Jones
Chief Public Health Officer of Canada