The Science-Policy Interface for Lifelong Health

Our mission is to act as a dynamic interface between the world of science and the realm of policy, ensuring that health strategies and interventions are firmly rooted in robust scientific evidence. These strategies are carefully tailored to address the diverse and evolving needs of populations at various life stages, from prenatal to older adulthood. By bringing together experts from a wide range of fields—such as healthcare, public health, epidemiology, behavioral science, economics, and more—the Initiative strives to create an integrated, holistic approach to disease prevention and health promotion.

The initiative recognises that health outcomes are shaped by a multitude of factors across the entire lifespan, and therefore, the policies developed through this platform are designed to take into account the complex social, environmental, and economic determinants of health. Through collaborative research, policy development, and advocacy. We seek to empower communities and policymakers to implement sustainable, evidence-backed solutions that improve health outcomes and reduce health disparities. Join us in our quest to reshape the future of health policy for individuals, families, and communities worldwide.

Objectives

The LifeCourse Health Prevention Initiative employs a variety of tools and forums to achieve our overarching goal of reshaping the future of health policy for individuals, families, and communities worldwide, including:

Annual Summit

Now in its 10th year, this global forum, attracting a diverse and cross-disciplinary audience, serves as the cornerstone of our initiative. It showcases cutting-edge research and provides a platform for meaningful discussions on how to translate scientific advancements into actionable policy.

Policy Briefs and Reports

Regular publications will distil complex research findings into accessible information and actionable recommendations for health policymakers and public health professionals.

Workshops and Seminars

These events will provide stakeholders with the skills and knowledge necessary to implement effective prevention strategies within their communities and organisations.

Our Story

The challenges we face

We face significant challenges in an era marked by an increasingly ageing population and the growing need to provide comprehensive healthcare across the life course. Translating complex scientific research into practical, evidence-based health policies is more critical than ever. At the same time, health strategies must effectively address the multifaceted social, environmental, and economic determinants that shape health outcomes throughout every stage of life.

A framework for action

We foster interdisciplinary collaboration to translate scientific evidence into effective health policies that promote prevention and wellness throughout the lifespan. Our focus is on developing tailored strategies that address the unique needs of individuals at each life stage, while also accounting for broader social, environmental, and economic determinants of health.

Our Focus for Impact

We create long-lasting evidence-backed solutions that improve health outcomes and reduce disparities across ages and populations. By empowering communities and policymakers, the lifecourse health prevention initiative aims to drive meaningful change in health promotion and disease prevention at every stage of life.

Leadership

Our Co-Chairs and leadership team are dedicated to driving impactful change in global health by promoting evidence-based, interdisciplinary approaches to prevention across all life stages. With a strong focus on policy development and strategic health interventions, they work to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical health solutions.

Barratt, Jane

Global Advisor, International Federation on Ageing (IFA)

Stephenson, Terence

Honorary Consultant & Nuffield Prof. of Child Health, UCL GOS Institute of Child Health, United Kingdom

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Representatives of Supporting Associations

The representatives of our supporting associations, along with our team of policy experts, play a crucial role in shaping global health policies through research-driven strategies. Their expertise ensures that prevention-focused initiatives are grounded in science, effectively translating research into actionable policies that improve health outcomes worldwide.

Sneddon, Gregor

Secretary General, International Federation on Ageing (IFA)

Maggi, Stefania

Board Member, European Interdisciplinary Council on Ageing (ESCEO)

Himawan, Arunima

Senior Health Policy and Research Manager, International Longevity Centre (ILC)

Hodin, Michael

CEO, Global Coalition on Aging

Lomazzi, Marta

Executive Manager, World Federation Public Health Association (WFPHA)

Del Riccio, Marco

Medical Doctor, Specialised in Hygiene, Preventive Medicine and Public Health at the University of Florence, Italy.

Votta, Mariano

Director of Active Citizenship Network (ACN), the international branch of the Italian NGO Cittadinanzattiva

Working Group and Summit Participants

Our work is made possible through the invaluable contributions of our partner organizations, associations, supporters, and the global experts engaged in the Summit, as well as our Working and Expert Groups—each of which plays a critical role in shaping the initiative’s direction, focus, and outputs.