The RCP aims to be relentless in our pursuit of improving the health of the population, as reflected by our engagement with a number of key issues. We believe that more measures need to be taken in order to protect the long-term health of the nation from the effects of tobacco. We also believe that doctors have a key leadership and advocacy role to play in supporting individuals and communities across all branches of society to take effective action for good health. With alcohol misuse in the UK causing an ever-increasing health harm, the RCP believes that there is the need to take specific courses of action to reduce the populations alcohol consumption. Obesity is a major public health issue, for which the RCP advocates an effective and comprehensive response across many different fronts, promoting and raising public awareness of the benefits of healthy eating and increased physical activity. Outside the UK, we also believe we have an important role to play in the field of global health, and are developing strands of work in the areas where we can be most effective.