RCPCH launches landmark report into the state of child health

Launched in January, The State of Child Health brings together data for the first time on a comprehensive list of 25 measures of the health of UK children, ranging from specific conditions such as asthma, diabetes and epilepsy, risk factors for poor health such as obesity and a low rate of breastfeeding, to child deaths. The data provide an "across the board" snapshot of child health and wellbeing in the UK.

Compiled by child health experts, with input from children and young people themselves, the report provides clear recommendations for improvements. These include calling for each UK government to develop cross-departmental support for breastfeeding; this should include a national public health campaign and a sector-wide approach that includes employers, to support women to breastfeed.

The report will be a springboard for RCPCH campaigning activity to ensure child health is a key political priority.