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Scottish Health Survey
31/08/2010
Commenting on today's Scottish Health Survey topic report, which gives UK comparisons, Public Health Minister Shona Robison said:
"Scotland historically has an appalling health record. For generations, far too many people have died before their time with our culture of poor diet, heavy drinking and smoking all taking their toll.
"That's why we're taking action to improve our nation's health and it is heartening that we are seeing improvements in many areas.
"But, as today's statistics show, other parts of the UK are still doing better and this clearly demonstrates that we can, and must, do more to help Scots live healthy lives.
"We are already taking action. For instance, our Alcohol Bill will help to end the sale of ludicrously cheap alcohol while the new tobacco legislation will end both displays of cigarettes in shops and sales from vending machines. We're also investing heavily in stop smoking services - over £40 million in the current spending period."