UK healthy life expectancy falls by two years in past decade

"The Health Foundation reported that the UK is one of only five of the richest 21 countries to see a decline in healthy life expectancy, with a drop of around two years to just under 61 for both men and women."

"The analysis revealed that those in the wealthiest 10% of areas could expect to have around 20 more years of good health than those in the poorest, highlighting significant health disparities."

"In England, Richmond in London had the highest rates of healthy life expectancy at 69 for men and 70 for women, while Blackpool and Hartlepool reported only 51 years for both genders."

"The report emphasized that more than 90% of areas now have a healthy life expectancy below the state pension age, indicating a serious impact on the ability of people to work due to ill-health."

Healthy life expectancy in the UK has decreased by approximately two years over the past decade, now standing at just under 61 years for both genders. The UK is among the few wealthy nations experiencing this decline, attributed to factors like poverty, poor housing, obesity, and the Covid pandemic. Wealth disparities are stark, with the richest 10% enjoying about 20 more years of good health compared to the poorest. The report indicates a significant impact on workforce participation due to health issues, urging policymakers to address these alarming trends.

Read at www.bbc.com