The UK’s health landscape and the endeavour for national well-being

May 10, 2024

The pursuit of optimal health and well-being is not just a goal but a shared mission across the diverse communities and authorities of the UK. However, achieving this goal requires more than just acknowledging its importance; it demands a deep understanding of the complex web of health disparities that exist across different regions and cohorts. These health disparities are not merely statistical figures; they represent real-life challenges faced by individuals and communities. Addressing them is essential for creating a society that truly values the well-being of all its members.

To grasp the nuances of health disparities, it is necessary to explore a wide array of factors that contribute to health outcomes. These factors encompass various dimensions of life, including socio-economic conditions, access to healthcare, lifestyle behaviours, environmental factors, and cultural influences. By examining these multifaceted dimensions of health, we can uncover profound insights that inform targeted interventions, create policies for equitable resource allocation, and collaborate to build a healthier and more resilient nation.

In recognition of the importance of understanding regional health disparities, BIOHIT HealthCare has compared the health statuses of various local authorities in England, evaluating their health ratings which includes not only traditional metrics such as mental and physical health but also factors like local unemployment rates, road safety, and behaviours such as healthy eating habits.

By leveraging the power of data analytics and evidence-based research, policymakers and stakeholders can identify areas of need, prioritise interventions, and allocate resources effectively to address health disparities, and thereby promote the well-being of all individuals regardless of their geographical location or socio-economic background. Recognising and addressing health disparities is not just imperative but also a strategic necessity for building a healthier, more resilient, and inclusive society. By embracing a comprehensive understanding of health that goes beyond mere statistics, and encompassing the diverse factors influencing well-being, we can pave the way for a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and lead a fulfilling life.

Top 5 Lowest Health Score Areas

1. Blackpool – 76.5

Blackpool, situated in Lancashire, has the lowest health score in England, acquiring a low rating of 76.5. This figure marks a concerning decline of 1.4 points from the previous year, indicating a deteriorating health trajectory. Notably, Blackpool’s youth face significant challenges in education, employment, and apprenticeships, as evidenced by a disheartening score of 60.3 in these domains, signalling a pressing need for targeted interventions to support the younger demographic.

2. Kingston upon Hull, City of – 77.5

Following closely behind Blackpool, the area of Kingston upon Hull emerges with the second-lowest health score, standing at 77.5. Similarly to Blackpool, this figure reflects a notable decrease of 2.6 points compared to previous years, underscoring ongoing health challenges within the community. Particularly concerning is the area’s low score of 64.2 in the disability domain, shedding light on the pressing need for enhanced support and accessibility measures for individuals with disabilities.

3. Liverpool – 79.9

The vibrant city of Liverpool, nestled in Merseyside, holds the third lowest health rating in England, with a modest score of 79.9. While this figure represents a marginal decrease of 1.3 points from the previous year, it signals persistent health disparities within the community. Of particular concern is the area’s performance in avoidable deaths, which emerges as the lowest indicator, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address preventable causes of death and improve overall health outcomes.

4. Middlesbrough – 80.2

In North Yorkshire, Middlesbrough grapples with one of the lowest health scores in the nation, earning a rating of 80.2. Despite a slight improvement of 1 point over the previous year, this figure underscores ongoing health challenges. Notably, Middlesbrough’s score for number of deaths recorded overall in the year is the lowest indicator, with a concerning score of 69.5, highlighting the need for comprehensive strategies to address underlying health determinants and improve overall well-being.

5. Manchester – 81.8

Rounding off the list of areas with the lowest health scores is the city of Manchester, boasting a rating of 81.8. While this figure represents a notable increase of 2.2 points from the previous year—the highest among the top 5—it still places Manchester among the regions facing significant health challenges.

Top 20 Areas With The Lowest Health Score

Local Authority County Region Health score for 2021
Blackpool Lancashire North West 76.5
Kingston upon Hull, City of East Riding of Yorkshire Yorkshire and The Humber 77.5
Liverpool Merseyside North West 79.9
Middlesbrough North Yorkshire North East 80.2
Manchester Greater Manchester North West 81.8
Nottingham Nottinghamshire East Midlands 82.0
Knowsley Merseyside North West 82.8
Salford Greater Manchester North West 83.5
Leicester Leicestershire East Midlands 83.6
Portsmouth Hampshire South East 83.8
Peterborough Cambridgeshire East of England 84.1
Birmingham West Midlands West Midlands 84.2
Lincoln Lincolnshire East Midlands 85.3
Sandwell West Midlands West Midlands 85.3
Burnley Lancashire North West 85.4
Enfield Middlesex London 86.2
Southwark Surrey London 86.4
Southampton Hampshire South East 86.6
Blackburn with Darwen Lancashire North West 86.7
Hartlepool County Durham North East 87.2

 

Top 20 Areas With The Highest Health Score

Local Authority County Region Health score for 2021
Harrogate North Yorkshire Yorkshire and The Humber 124.9
Rutland Leicestershire East Midlands 124.6
Elmbridge Surrey South East 124.1
Waverley Surrey South East 123.1
Hart Hampshire South East 122.9
Uttlesford Essex East of England 122.4
Surrey Heath Surrey South East 122.3
Rochford Essex East of England 122.0
Ribble Valley Lancashire North West 121.9
Horsham West Sussex South East 121.9
South Lakeland Cumbria North West 121.6
Richmondshire North Yorkshire Yorkshire and The Humber 121.2
Rushcliffe Nottinghamshire East Midlands 121.0
Mid Sussex West Sussex South East 120.4
South Oxfordshire Oxfordshire South East 120.2
North Hertfordshire Hertfordshire East of England 120.1
Hambleton North Yorkshire Yorkshire and The Humber 119.9
Mid Suffolk Suffolk East of England 119.8
West Oxfordshire Oxfordshire South East 119.8
South Hams Devon South West 119.7

 

Methodology

  • We reviewed the latest Health Index Score data sheet from the Office for National Statistics (ONS)
  • Then ranked these figures from lowest to highest.
  • For the other figures we used the Health Index document also released by the ONS.

Innovations For Healthcare

BIOHIT HealthCare stands as a pivotal leader in the global healthcare landscape, particularly in the realm of digestive disease care. With over a decade of experience, we have consistently supplied diagnostic tests and health solutions, contributing significantly to patient management and overall well-being on a global scale. The fusion of academic, clinical, and commercial expertise enables BIOHIT HealthCare to introduce innovative technologies, processes, and pathways that resonate across healthcare providers and the broader economy.

It is well documented that a strong association exists between socioeconomic status and health, and when it comes to gastrointestinal disease for example, this is particularly evident in children presenting with gastrointestinal infections. Studies have also shown that deprivation is linked to higher incidences of peptic ulcer disease and severe oesophagitis, and later stage diagnosis of cancer. Health scores help highlight potential inequalities and deprivation that may inform and guide better policies on healthcare provision.

Shifting focus to the UK’s health landscape, this report underscores the critical need for targeted interventions and support. Identifying these regions provides a foundation for strategic planning, resource allocation, and policy development aimed at addressing the unique healthcare challenges faced by these communities. As we navigate the complexities of healthcare disparities, collaboration between stakeholders, including governmental bodies, healthcare providers, and organisations like BIOHIT HealthCare, becomes imperative.


About BIOHIT HealthCare

BIOHIT HealthCare is a Finnish biotech company, headquartered in Helsinki, that specialises in the development, manufacture and distribution of kits and assays for the screening, diagnosis and monitoring of digestive diseases. Its core disease focus areas include stomach health and dyspepsia, reflux and acid dysregulation, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID), Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and gut microbiota dysbiosis. Innovating for Health www.biohithealthcare.co.uk

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