"In 1998, our first annual report looked at social inequalities in health on the island of Montréal ... One statistic in particular emerged from among the findings and has often been cited: the life expectancy of men living in poor neighbourhoods in Montréal is 10 years below that of men in wealthy neighbourhoods. Thirteen years later, social inequalities in health are again the focus of our annual report. Our intention is clear: to measure the progress made and identify the best ways to reduce these inequalities. This framework is fitting since the fight against social inequalities in health and the prevention of chronic diseases--themes that are closely linked in many respects--are the two priorities set out in the regional public health plan defined for the next five years."--P. 1.