INDEPENDENCE will allow Scotland to tackle deep health inequalities, Blair Jenkins said at the launch of Yes Glasgow.
The Yes Scotland campaign leader claimed Holyrood did not have the power to close the gap in life expectancy between rich and poor.
At the first meeting of Yes Glasgow – one of 32 Yes campaign groups around Scotland – the former BBC news chief said: "Mortality rates and health inequalities are worse in Scotland than in any other country in central and western Europe.
"The main cause of health inequalities is economic and social inequality, and the powers in those areas remain at Westminster. That is why Scotland must take a different direction of travel."
In November, the Scottish Government launched a task force on health inequalities. It is due to report this summer.
In his speech Mr Jenkins also said an independent Scotland could reverse UK Government welfare cuts.
Supporters also heard from Yes Scotland chairman Denis Canavan, the former Labour MP and Independent MSP, Scottish Greens co-convener Martha Wardrop, and Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
Ms Sturgeon said: "Unlike any time in our history, we have the democratic opportunity to choose an independent future for Scotland in a free and fair referendum. The case for Yes will inspire and motivate people in Glasgow and across the country."
However, Labour health spokeswoman Jackie Baillie said the Scottish Government was to blame for failing to reduce health inequalities.
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