Health Foundation responds to ONS data on life expectancy

The ONS has published new data today about life expectancy.

Commenting on the findings, Jo Bibby, Director of Strategy at the Health Foundation, said: 'The slowdown in the growth of life expectancy is a concern and the causes are complex. We agree that further investment in the health and social care system is important but our health cannot be improved through health care alone. While estimates vary, health care may only account for as little as 10% of a population’s health, with the rest being shaped by socio-economic factors. 

'There are significant regional variations in life expectancy caused, in part, by differences in the circumstances in which we live. For example, a third of households renting privately do not meet the Decent Homes Standard. To tackle the inequalities that affect life expectancy, we need to raise awareness and understanding of all the factors that make us healthy, and encourage more joined up thinking and action.'

Media contact

Liz Skinner
liz.skinner@health.org.uk
020 7257 8027