Health inequalities persist in the most deprived areas

● Survey finds consumption of fruit and veg at lowest in 14 years

People who live in the most deprived areas of Scotland have poorer health and are less likely to exercise than the those in the richest parts of the country according to the findings of a nationwide health survey.

The 2016 Scottish Health Survey shows that 35 per cent of those living in the most deprived areas smoke cigarettes. This is three times higher than those living in the least deprived areas (11 per cent). In total 21 per cent of adults are smoking, down from 28 per cent in 2003.

Researchers also found differences in levels of physical activity in relation to deprivation. People in the most deprived areas of Scotland are less likely to be physically active than those in the least deprived areas. Just over half of people in the poorest areas meet the Scottish Government’s guidelines for physical activity, compared with threequarters (74 per cent) of those in the least deprived areas.

The Scottish Health Survey also examined the extent to which people have more than one health risk factor including smoking, harmful drinking, low physical activity and obesity. The findings demonstrate that people in the most deprived areas are twice as likely to have two or more risk factors than those living in the least deprived areas.

Joanne Mclean, Research Director of the Scottish Health Survey at Scotcen Social Research said: “The persisting health inequalities in the Scottish population is a matter for national concern. Improving the health outcomes of more deprived people is one of the most important challenges for public health professionals and policymakers to address in the coming years.”

Conversely, average weekly alcohol consumption among women was higher on average in the least deprived areas at 9.7 units compared to 7.5 units in the most deprived areas.

The survey also found the average daily amount of fruit and vegetables eaten by Scottish adults has fallen with most adults managing an average of three portions per day - the lowest consumption since 2003.

Labour Public Health spokesperson Colin Smyth said: “This report highlights yet again the link between ill health and low incomes. You’re more likely to lead a healthy, active lifestyle if you come from a more prosperous background.”

Public Health Minister Aileen Campbell said: “We are working to create a culture where people eat and feel well, have a healthy weight and children learn good habits. “Eating and feeling well can go hand in hand with being physically active. There is a welcome increase in the number of children who are physically active.”