First section of new Welsh health report published
Physical activity levels in Wales need to increase to meet recommendations |
Health statistics about people living in Wales were published by the Welsh Assembly Government this week, in the first section of a new report.
“Health Status Wales 2004–05” is the first in a series
of reports from Chief Medical Officer Ruth Hall. It provides an overview
of health in Wales and focuses in particular on respiratory disease,
sexual health and levels of physical activity.
The report states that, overall, death rates in Wales have declined over
the past 10 years and life expectancy has risen. Death rates remain higher
than those in England and lower than those in Scotland, but significant
variation of health status is seen across local authority areas.
Respiratory diseases were the cause of 13 per cent of all deaths in Wales
during 2002, according to the report, and about 13 per cent of adults
currently report being treated for a respiratory illness. Asthma is estimated
to affect 7 to 10 per cent of the Welsh population.
Turning to sexual health, the report says that diagnoses of chlamydia,
gonorrhoea and syphilis are increasing, the highest rates occurring in
those aged under 25 years. HIV rates in Wales are also continuing to
rise. Teenage conception rates, however, have been falling since their
peak in 1998.
The report also says that physical activity levels in Wales are still
far below those recommended for health, in both adults and children.
An assessment of health targets that were set for the period 1997–2002
is included in the report, showing mixed progress. Targets that were
met include those relating to cervical cancer and coronary heart disease
in people aged 67–74 years. Targets that were not met include reducing
rates of breast cancer and the number of deaths by suicide. The report
summarises the new health targets that were set in 2003–04 and
which are aimed to be achieved over the next 10 years.
Further sections of the report are expected quarterly and will focus
on a particular theme for improving health and reducing health inequalities
in Wales. |
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