The Office for National Statistics (ONS) estimates about two thirds of all premature deaths are avoidable that is, they could potentially be avoided by public health action (preventable), better health care (amenable) or both and that preventable deaths make up about half of all avoidable deaths. The opportunity is great for Public Health England and the new public health system to contribute to a reduction in the underlying causes and risks of poor health smoking, excess alcohol consumption, physical inactivity and rising levels of obesity. Read what Public Health England's Knowledge Officer has to say here.