This Report builds on base line health information presented in the first Report in 1996, updating core information on demography, mortality and morbidity in 1997. The recommendations made in 1996 are reviewed and progress in achieving health and social gain in these areas identified.

A number of issues identified last year as major health problems are focused on in greater detail, e.g. cancer, coronary heart disease and teenage pregnancy. Chapters on communicable disease and environmental aspects of health continue to emphasise the importance of these areas to the public's health.

In addition the Report highlights the new areas of women's health and health inequalities.

An evaluation of the first Public Health Report was carried out by a consumer survey. The Report was considered informative, useful for planning and highlighting health issues. Feedback on content and presentation has been incorporated into this Report's presentation.

The 1997 Report continues the cycle of health status measurement, information for service planning and evaluation of progress on health and social gain.