The government has launched a glossy women’s health magazine in its latest bid to encourage healthy living.

More than 70 Primary care trusts have joined forces with Dr Foster, the independent healthcare information provider and the Department of Health to produce Your Life! magazine.

Your Life! will feature celebrity interviews, tips and tailored information about local NHS services. It will be available free through a range of organisations decided at local level, which could include NHS premises, newsagents, hairdressing salons and nail bars.

With the Derek Wanless report due next month and the Chief Medical Officer’s report expected in the spring, the magazine marks a departure from traditional educational campaigns, said Secretary of State for Health, John Reid.

“A poster in a GP’s waiting room won’t always be enough,” he said. “We need an information revolution in the NHS. Your Life! magazine combines the accessibility of a consumer magazine with reliable advice from experienced health professionals.”

He adds that many of today’s long term health problems such as heart disease and conditions linked with obesity can be prevented through healthy living: “More and more people are taking an interest in their long term health, but want advice and support to live a healthier lifestyle,” he said. “It’s in our interests to help them.”