Govt urged to focus on health of under-fives
Govt urged to focus on health of under-fives
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By Matt Hallam. |  |
Wednesday, 03, Feb 2010 12:10
By inthenews.co.uk staff
A new study has revealed government policy concerning the health and wellbeing of children under five have not significantly improved during the past decade.
The report by the Audit Commission states that around £10 billion has been used to help improve the health of the youngsters in England since 1998, but the results have been disappointing.
There have been some improvements during the last ten years, including the number of deaths declining and rates of obesity slowing down.
However, the report showed the gap between disadvantaged areas and those in better areas had increased and a child in a deprived area is 19 per cent more likely to have unhealthy teeth than the average child.
By acting now and saving money in areas on children's health, diabetes, heart disease and hypertension could be reduced and NHS resources could be saved, according to authors for the report.
Steve Bundred, chief executive of the Audit Commission, said: "It's encouraging to see some improvement in the health of babies and young children, but the under-fives rarely seem a priority locally.
"Overall, the findings are disappointing. Children need a healthier start in life and policies are not delivering commensurate improvement and value for money."
He added: "Despite progress, our infant mortality rate remains higher than countries such as the Netherlands, France, the Republic of Ireland and Spain.
"Even before they are born, for many, place and parents' income determine their quality of life and their lifespan."
The Audit Commission adds funding from councils and the NHS needs to be more organised and clear about health for the under-fives.
The Audit Commission has called for a single set of local priorities agreed by those responsible for driving improvements in children's health, supported by a clear statement on government policy.