Public Health report focuses on improving the health and wellbeing of region's children & young people

The report calls for organisations, at all levels, to address the identified needs and continue to work together to implement a range of health initiatives, including promoting healthy eating and physical activity, increasing the uptake of immunisation, strengthening mental health services and ensuring better access to health services. 

The Hywel Dda region, which covers Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire, is home to over 100,000 individuals under the age of 25. The independent annual report emphasises the importance of early years for long-term health outcomes. 

One of the key areas in the report is the significance of the first 1000 days of life. The Hywel Dda region has a high prevalence of maternal obesity and mental health issues, which can lead to complications such as gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia. The report calls for a concerted effort to promote healthy nutrition, support smoke-free pregnancies, and improve maternal mental health services through low-intensity, digital-based solutions. 

In early childhood, the report encourages increased immunisation rates and greater action through initiatives that improve school readiness. Rising rates of childhood overweight and obesity remain a significant concern, with potential long-term implications for both physical and mental health.  

With about 1 in 3 children aged 4-5 being overweight or obese efforts need to be made to tackle obesity in primary school children. This needs to work alongside efforts to help children manage their digital habits, to ensure healthy sleep patterns and emotional wellbeing. 

From secondary school into late adolescence and early adulthood, the report highlights the importance of addressing our young people’s mental health challenges.  just under 1 in 5 adolescents are reporting to be using e-cigarettes and just under half (40%) using alcohol, the report stresses the need for targeted interventions to further reduce harmful behaviours. 

Dr Ardiana Gjini, the Executive Director of Public Health for Hywel Dda University Health Board says  

“By focusing on early intervention, addressing inequalities, and improving access to essential services, we can create a healthier future for all young people. 

“We will work across the Health Board and with our partners to put in place the 16 recommendations, to enhance our joint efforts and ensure ‘every child can thrive and live a happy and healthy life, both now and in the future.” 

For more information or to access the full report, please visit Public health annual reports - Hywel Dda University Health Board.