As with anywhere there are many issues affecting the health of people living in London, including housing, employment and education. People's lifestyles also have a big impact on their healthcare needs, for example what they eat, whether they smoke, how much they drink or take exercise.

Issues in a capital city

Compared to other regions of the country, London is unique and brings unique challenges in delivering excellence in healthcare. The London population is more mobile than anywhere else in the country, younger, more ethnically diverse and includes some of the wealthiest and some of the most deprived areas of the UK.

London also has a particular set of public health challenges. Did you know for example that there are higher rates of teenage pregnancy, mental health problems and childhood obesity in some London Boroughs than in other areas of the UK?

The London 2012 games provides London with a fantastic opportunity to create a lasting health legacy for Londoners.