Experts say under fives betrayed as health declines

Experts say worsening health among the under fives in the UK needs to be urgently addressed, highlighting ‘major health issues’ such as obesity, infant deaths and tooth decay.

The Academy of Medical Sciences says society is betraying children and the problems are limiting their future and damaging economic prosperity.

The government says children’s health is a priority.  A spokeswoman said “We’ve taken significant action to improve children’s health now and in the long term.  This includes measures to reduce sugar in children’s food and investing in mental health services and dentistry.”

However, the academy, which represents health researchers and medical scientists in the UK, pointed out that progress on child health had stalled in recent years, adding that the pandemic and increased cost of living was to blame – and had proved particularly damaging to those living in more deprived areas.

Report author Professor Helen Minnis, said “Every child has the right to a safe and healthy childhood.  It is shameful that the UK is failing to provide this.

“The science is clear – we are betraying our children.”

Fellow author Professor Sir Andrew Pollard said there had been an “appalling decline in the health of our children” which was creating a “bleak outlook for their future”.

He added “It is time for big thinking and clear strategy by government to protect the health and life chances of our children and transform the future of our nation.”

Dr Mike McKean of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, said the report provided “alarming evidence”, adding “We are presiding over a crisis in child health that demands urgent action.”

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Posted by Karen Motley, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (jacquelinevance@chadlaw.co.uk), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

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