Under fives betrayed as health declines

Worsening health among the under fives in the UK needs to be urgently addressed, experts say.

The Academy of Medical Sciences highlights what it says are "major health issues" like infant deaths, obesity and tooth decay.

It says society is betraying children and the problems are limiting their future and damaging economic prosperity.

The report says:

• The UK is 30th out of 49 rich countries for infant mortality.
• One in five children falls short of the expected level of development aged two.
• One in five is overweight or obese by five.
• Vaccination targets are being missed for diseases such as measles.
• One in four is affected by tooth decay by five.
• One in five women struggles with their mental health during or just after pregnancy.
• Air pollution is linked to worsening asthma.
• Rising demand for child mental health services.

The report calls for a cross-government vision to be developed to tackle the problems and investment in the child health workforce, including health visitors.

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Source: BBC News, 5 February 2024