Poorest children in England 40% more likely to be hospitalised for lung infections
Summary
Children in the poorest areas of England are 40% more likely to go to the hospital because of lung infections than those in richer areas. Experts say this is linked to worse air pollution and poor housing conditions in these poorer neighborhoods.Key Facts
- In 2024-25, about 1,941 out of every 100,000 children in the poorest areas were hospitalized for lung infections.
- In the richest areas, this number was lower, at 1,380 out of every 100,000 children.
- These infections include illnesses like flu, pneumonia, and other upper and lower respiratory infections.
- Poorer areas also have more problems like damp, mould, and outdated heating, which can harm children’s lung health.
- Air pollution is a major cause of health problems and is worse in deprived neighborhoods.
- Air pollution contributes to about 43,000 deaths a year in the UK and can slow lung growth in children.
- Experts call for stronger laws to reduce air pollution, especially to protect children in the poorest areas.
- Improving air quality and housing conditions could help reduce health differences between rich and poor children.
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