I'm a registered nurse, and work with people who in many instances, are unwell because of lifestyle issues ie cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses. It would be easy to be judgemental and say that their choice of foods, willingness to smoke and drink have led to their current state of health and that the blame can only be laid at their own doorstep. However, if you dig a little deeper there are many factors involved.

Socio-economics play a huge part in health issues and I feel much more needs to be looked at than the NHS which can only really educate with the aim of disease prevention, and the treat the end result. Why does it cost more to buy a bag of apples than it does a cheeseburger? People on low incomes really struggle to provide a healthy balanced menu for their families, and trust me, as a single parent I've been there, and plumped for the cheaper bigger quantity that may not be that healthy.

People under stress often display addictive behaviours and turn to alcohol and other drugs as a crutch, and its not for any one of us to judge them unless we're living their life. I have 3 school aged children who are very aware of what constitutes a healthy diet, and appreciate that exercise is important. However they also understand that money has to be fitted to need and sometimes it doesn't stretch far enough. Yes we can go out for walks and runs for free, but after a 13 hour shift I don't have the energy, nor do I live in an area where it would be particularly safe to jog at night (suggested to me by my GP who doesn't live in the area!!), and besides, who would look after my kids? I can't afford gym membership, or to go swimming every other day.

Tackle things at the basic level and the NHS can only benefit. More school nurses to educate children (my kids have never met one!!), teach them how to cook basic meals in food technology (mine have come home this week with scones and apple crumble, a healthy stew or casserole would be more appropriate!!). As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure (and I see that on a daily basis at the sharp end) but if the ability to make those lifestyle choices, whether through education or finances, isn't available to all, then we are always going to be treating the unwell.