UK's Poor Record in Children's Health: BMA Report Highlights Need for Radical Action

Strategic Insights -

A major report by the British Medical Association has exposed the UK's poor record in children's health, ranking the country 18th for deaths in early childhood. The report, "Growing up in Britain; ensuring a healthy future for our children," reveals that inequalities in child health are marked and the gap is widening. Children from poorer families face significant health disparities, with a 70% higher infant mortality rate compared to those from higher social classes.

Key Takeaways:

  • The UK ranks 18th for deaths in early childhood, lagging behind fellow G8 countries such as Japan, Germany, and France.
  • Inequalities in child health are marked, with a 70% higher infant mortality rate for the poorest families compared to those in social class I.
  • Children in class V are four times more likely to die in an accident than those in class I, with nearly twice the rate of longstanding illness, and a markedly poorer diet.
  • The infant mortality rate for the poorest families is 70% higher than for those in social class I.
  • The gap in child health inequality is widening, with a notable difference between children from different social classes.
  • Dr. James Appleyard, treasurer of the BMA, calls for a radical agenda to tackle inequality and put children at the centre of priorities.
  • The report emphasizes the crucial role of the first five years of life in developing a child's body, mind, and personality.

Statistics:

  • 70% higher infant mortality rate for the poorest families compared to those in social class I.
  • 19% of the population has an income below half the national average, a figure that has remained stable since 1993.
  • 20% of the population had an income below half the national average in 1993.
  • The UK has the 18th worst-ranked mortality rate for children aged under five among G8 countries.

Sources:

  • "Growing up in Britain; ensuring a healthy future for our children" report by the British Medical Association.
  • United Nations Development Programme.