Every year around 70-80% of healthcare costs in the European Union are spent on non-infectious diseases. At the same time, by limiting the main risk factors – smoking, unhealthy diets, lack of physical activity, and alcohol abuse – it is possible to improve quality of life and increase the number of healthy life years, thus making considerable financial savings.
The Health Ministers will discuss current alcohol and nutrition policies and future challenges. They will also look back on the progress made and outline future directions and the European Union's role in the healthcare sector.