What we are reading...

Alcohol UK’s Millennium Cohort Study shows binge drinking among Gen Z increases significantly between adolescence and the early twenties. By age 23, 68% report binge drinking in the past year and 29% do so monthly, nearly three times higher than at age 17.

Air pollution The European Environment Agency (EEA) briefing reviewed growing scientific evidence linking environmental pollution to mental health outcomes such as depression, anxiety and cognitive decline, particularly among children and other vulnerable groups. Similarly, the Environmental Research finds that exposure to major air pollutants is associated with an increased risk of anxiety disorders.

Artificial intelligence Ireland’s government has launched its first national strategy for the safe and responsible use of artificial intelligence in health and social care. The strategy aims to shorten diagnosis times, improve patient flow, and reduce the administrative burden on clinicians. It also aims to strengthen public health initiatives, helping to detect health risks earlier, support healthier lifestyles, and deliver more targeted prevention and health promotion efforts

Cancer A large international study in the British Journal of Cancer analysing data from 1.8 million people found that vegetarian diets are associated with lower risks of several cancers, including breast, prostate, kidney and pancreatic cancers. However, the study also observed higher risks for some cancers.

Cardiovascular health A new report from Portugal’s National Programme for Cerebro- and Cardiovascular Diseases shows that the share of deaths from circulatory diseases reached its lowest level in three decades in 2023. Although it still remains the leading cause of death that now accounts for about 25% of all deaths.

Climate change Students at the London School of Economics use board games to learn about climate-health policy decisions and understand complex trade-offs between climate action, health systems, and social equity - Health Policy Watch

Climate change A new WHO Regions for Health Network publication presents case studies from six regions on climate adaptation strategies. It calls for stronger integration of health into climate policies and more resilient, low-carbon health systems.

Commercial determinants A new publication from the European Audiovisual Observatory explores how EU and national laws address advertising of foods high in fat, sugar and salt (HFSS), with a focus on the role of self-regulation.

Energy drinks Spain’s government plans to introduce regulations banning the sale of energy drinks to children under 16, with stricter limits for highly caffeinated drinks, which would not be sold to under-18s – Euronews

Food environment The EIT Food Trust Report 2026, based on a survey of nearly 20,000 consumers across 18 European countries, finds that health is the main driver of food choices, but affordability pressures and entrenched habits often prevent people from adopting healthier and more sustainable diets.

Life expectancy In 2024, average life expectancy at birth in the EU was 81.5 years. This shows a 0.1-year increase from 2023 - Eurostat

Loneliness Spain has approved its first National Strategic Framework on Loneliness, aiming to prevent and address unwanted loneliness through coordinated action across public policies. The strategy focuses on community support, early detection across services, and stronger cooperation with civil society.

Mortality causes Eurostat reports that circulatory diseases accounted for 32.8% of all deaths in the EU in 2023, followed by cancer (23.9%).

Social media Portugal’s parliament has approved a bill setting 16 as the minimum age for independent access to social media platforms. Children aged 13–16 would need verified parental consent to create accounts by using the country’s Digital Mobile Key system for age verification - Euronews

Social media Germany’s governing parties are converging on proposals to restrict children’s access to social media, including a possible ban for users under 14 and stronger age-verification requirements for teenagers – Health Policy Watch

Tobacco WHO/Europe has published a series of fact sheets, warning that the Region is on track to remain the worst globally for tobacco use by 2030. There are particularly worrying trends among women and young people. The data show rising use of e-cigarettes among adolescents and uneven implementation of tobacco control measures.

Wealth gap 83% of people in Scotland think the wealth gap is too large, 90% think inequality is more harmful than good, and 85% support higher taxes on the wealthiest - Wellbeing Economy Alliance Scotland

Wellbeing economy The latest episode of ‘This is Just Europe’ podcast ’One step beyond – GDP and into wellbeing’, explores why measuring progress beyond economic growth could improve Europeans’ wellbeing.

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