Comparability of health information activities—a co-ordinated framework for health information activities on nutrition and physical activity in the EU, EEA and candidate countries

Background  Many health information activities related to nutrition and physical activity have been initiated in recent years by several institutions at the national and international level as well as by European networks. A multitude of projects with different scopes and methodologies has arisen. This variety makes it necessary to bring the results of these activities into a co-ordinated framework. Aim  The report “Nutrition and physical activity—health information sources in EU Member States, and activities in the Commission, WHO, and European networks” aims to give a structured overview of the availability of routinely repeated or repeatable data on the health determinants nutrition and physical activity in European countries. Results  The report provides a structured overview of health information activities related to nutrition and physical activity as well as a state-of-the-art investigation about available data in European countries. Conclusion  It was the intention of the report to give an overview of existing health information activities related to nutrition and physical activity covering actions in all countries belonging to the European Union up to 2006, the European Economic Area and all candidate countries and including all age groups. A multitude of health information activities related to nutrition and physical activity were considered. Common data reporting guidelines and standardised methods, which encompass public and private sector health information activities, should be developed. Regular revision and adaptation concerning developed strategies, policies and practices as needed for health and population dimensions have to be realised. In order to provide for concerted action in health policy at the European level, quality, relevant and timely data are needed.