Plenary Session 5 - Unmasking the Hidden Influences: The Commercial Determinants of Health
| Wednesday, April 30, 2025 |
| 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM |
| Federation Ballroom (Plenary) |
Details
In this session we will hear from three experts in the field, who will unmask commercial practices that are causing harm locally and abroad.
Understanding the commercial determinants of health are crucial from a public health perspective because they encompass the policies, practices, and products of commercial entities that shape living conditions, consumer behaviour, political decisions and more. These determinants can significantly impact health outcomes, often exacerbating inequities and prioritising private interests over public wellbeing.
For instance, the marketing and availability of unhealthy products like tobacco, alcohol, and ultra-processed foods contribute to non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Addressing these determinants through effective public health actions is vital for promoting healthier environments and reducing the burden of disease.
Keynote Speakers (Bios are available at https://www.prevention2025.com/keynote-speakers):
• Dr Charles Livingstone, Head of Gambling & Social Determinants, School of Public Health & Preventive Medicine,Monash University
• Professor Anne Marie Thow, Professor Public Policy and Health, The University of Sydney
• Professor Kathryn Backholer, Professor And Co-director, Global Centre For Preventive Health And Nutrition, Institute For Health Transformation, Deakin University
Speaker
Dr Charles Livingstone
Associate Professor
School Of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Monash University
Commerce, marketing, politics and prevention
Abstract
Commercial practices cause much harm to health and wellbeing - perhaps most of the burden attributable to NCDs. These evolve rapidly, but rely on political acquiescence. When we focus on commercial forces, are we missing half the picture? Reflecting on gambling policy and regulation provides some compelling examples.
Prof Anne Marie Thow
Professor Of Public Policy And Health
University Of Sydney
The influence of trade and investment agreements on the commercial determinants of health
Abstract
Trade and investment agreements embody global economic policy agendas that directly shape national policy, including health policy. Industry actors strategically use these agreements to influence policy processes and outcomes in both visible and hidden ways. To understand the dynamics of trade and investment agreements, it’s critical to reflect on underlying policy paradigms relating to knowledge, legitimacy and public priorities. Shifting these dynamics to address the commercial determinants of health will require innovation, imagination, and strategic engagement in a changing global context.
Prof Kathryn Backholer
Professor And Co-director
Global Centre For Preventive Health And Nutrition, Institute For Health Transformation, Deakin University
Behind the Screen: How the online ad model shapes our health
Abstract
The very architecture of the internet is designed to capture our attention and shape our behaviours, prioritising profits over public health. This presentation will explore how Big Tech and other corporate players employ a range of tactics to influence our daily lives, manipulate our behaviour and undermine public health. It will also examine the current Australian regulatory landscape, highlighting how the online ecosystem can be reimagined to serve the public good rather than corporate interests.
