Life expectancy in Peterborough lower than regional average – and ‘healthy years’ are dropping sharply
A report set to be presented to Peterborough City Council shows the average life expectancy in Peterborough is lower than in other regions.
The Annual Public Health Report – which contains data compiled by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) – will be presented to members of the Prevention Independence & Resilience Scrutiny Committee on March 10.
Peterborough City Council’s Director of Public Health, Raj Lakshman, authored the report.
“In Peterborough, the average life expectancy at birth is 77.8 years for men and 81.9 years for women,” he stated.
“Both are slightly lower than the averages for our local region, the East of England, and for England as a whole.”
The report also highlights how city residents can expect to enjoy significantly fewer healthy years of life – a trend which is declining sharply.
“When we look at healthy life expectancy – the years people can expect to live in good health – the most recent figures for Peterborough show men can expect 55.6 healthy years, and women 55.2 healthy years.”
“This is about five to six years lower than the average of other local authorities and, worryingly, has been declining sharply since 2014.”
The report is being presented as part of the council’s ‘Peterborough Get Moving’ initiative, a year-long campaign which aims to increase levels of health and fitness participation across the city.
“At Peterborough City Council, we are determined to add healthy years to every life and physical activity is one of the most powerful tools we have,” Mr Lakshman noted.
He emphasises how being regularly active can reduce our risk of chronic disease, has the potential to improve existing health problems and increase the number of years we live in good health:
“Physical activity reduces our risk of the six most common preventable conditions that cause ill health and increase our chances of dying early.”
According to the Department of Health & Social Care, these six conditions are: cancers, cardiovascular disease (including stroke and diabetes), musculoskeletal disorders, mental ill health, dementia, and chronic respiratory disease.
The report notes that now is an especially good time for Peterborough residents to reconsider their individual health and fitness goals:
“With all the investment coming into Peterborough through Pride in Place, new swimming pool and sports facilities, the opportunities to get active are increasing.”
Mr Lakshman added: “Peterborough offers easy access to nature reserves, while the city offers a vibrant community – perfect for partaking in physical activity.
“Together, we can make Peterborough a city where everyone has the chance to live healthier, happier, and more active lives.”