The Health Gap Published

Co-organized by the CUHK Press and CUHK Institute of Health Equity (IHE), the book launch of The Health Gap (Chinese edition) has been successfully held on 16 November.

The ceremony was officiated by CUHK Vice-Chancellor Prof. Rocky S. Tuan. Prof. Sir Michael Marmot, author of The Health Gap, shared his insights about health inequality. Prof. Eng-kiong Yeoh, Co-Director of IHE, presented the latest findings on health inequality in Hong Kong.

In his welcome address, Prof. Rocky S. Tuan said, ‘Professor Marmot has been the pioneer of the field of health equity over the past decades. He invites the general public to examine the social factors that may lead to health inequality. By translating Professor Marmot’s work, CUHK Press continues its mission in disseminating knowledge around the world to Chinese readers in the academic field and beyond.’

Ms. Gan Qi, Director of CUHK Press, said, ‘The Chinese edition of The Health Gap is one of the major publications for CUHK Press in 2021. Professor Marmot’s work presents a new angle on understanding public health by introducing the concept of the social gradient.’

Professor Marmot explained with compelling examples from around the world that health equality can be examined through the lens of social determinants. In each phase of an individual’s life, different social determinants will impact our health. He urged stakeholders in the community to come together and build a fairer and sustainable society.

As for the case in Hong Kong, Professor Yeoh stated that housing, work condition, socioeconomic position, social inclusion, health care and aging are all factors contributing to health equity. Hong Kong has the longest life expectancy worldwide; however, there are also marked health inequalities. The COVID-19 outbreak has exposed and exacerbated the pre-existing social inequalities in Hong Kong and we should adopt holistic strategies to tackle the problem.