An important theme in the cooperation between TU/e, WUR, UU and UMC Utrecht is Preventive Health. This theme offers solutions both for a better life with any of a number of conditions and for preventing these conditions. The goal is to stay healthy longer and to unburden the healthcare system.
Social issues
Our healthcare system is under great stress. There are large disparities in health as a result of different education levels and economic conditions. The decisions and behaviour of citizens influence their health: consider, for example, food, exercise, smoking or alcohol. We are still falling short in getting citizens to make healthy decisions and behavioural changes. Moreover, urbanisation raises questions about the influence of the physical living environment on our health, and the ageing population is increasing the demand on healthcare.
Approach
Preventing disease requires an integral approach to health. People are not just biological beings; they are also social beings who make behavioural decisions and interact with their (physical) environment. The interplay between these aspects determines the health of not just individuals but groups as well. New technologies are making it possible to monitor health accurately and offer customised preventive care. The research involves collaboration on this integral approach.
Preventive Health Programme
The Preventive Health programme aims to contribute to the central mission of the Knowledge and Innovation agenda 2020-2023 of Health Holland: For all Dutch people to live for at least five years longer in good health, and to decrease the health differences between the lowest and highest socio-economic groups by 30%.
The programme has set three goals for 2022:
- Drive relevant and joint research
- Drive joint education
- Build a Preventive Health community within and outside the alliance
>To the team of Preventive Health