Health issues covered in this report include;

Progress on 2001 recommendations;

The dangers of second-hand smoke (including recommendations on banning smoking in public places);

A study on West Nile virus including the risk of it spreading to England and need for surveillance and contingency plans;

Curbing England's obesity epidemic;

Patient safety in intrathecal chemotherapy treatment;

And tackling poor clinical practice by providing support and dealing more effectively with problem doctors.

Also included is a regional focus on some local problems, trends and initiatives across England.

Health issues covered in this report include;

Progress on 2001 and 2002 recommendations;

The harmful effects of smoking on people's skin;

The economic impact of smoke-free public places and work-places;

The importance of early detection and diagnosis of HIV;

A review of academic medicine and medical research;

And use of blood and safety in blood transfusions.

Also included is a regional focus on some local problems, trends and initiatives across England.