Inaugural lecture Prof. dr. Matty Crone

"Gezondheid. Zo simpel is het niet"

Approximately one in three Dutch citizens suffers from chronic conditions, and the prevalence of multiple health issues is expected to rise. These conditions can interact, leading to a poorer quality of life than expected. The accumulation of health conditions is more common among people with for example a lower income, smaller social networks, or poorer living conditions. A life-course approach is essential to address the layering of health and social issues. Such approach connects prevention and care, focusing on how health develops throughout a person’s life. Special attention is given to key life transitions, such as starting school, moving in together, or retiring, as well as to significant life events like moving house, unemployment, or illness: these moments can impact a person’s health both positively and negatively. It adopts a holistic, family-centered perspective on health, addressing social issues and needed structural or upstream changes. While many effective interventions align with a life-course approach, better coordination and integration are necessary to enhancing their impact. Increasing access, particularly for vulnerable groups, and supporting professionals in implementing these interventions are crucial. This approach represents an important step toward reducing health disparities and improving well-being for all. 

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