Heart disease and cancer are the leading causes of death in Grampian. The death rates for these causes are about 1.5 times higher in the most deprived than in the least deprived areas. Deaths due to breathing problems such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), alcohol-related diseases, accidents, suicide and liver disease are2 -3 times high in our most deprived communities.
The biggest inequality is seen for drug-related deaths, where rates are seven times higher in the most deprived areas. The top six causes of ill-health in Scotland are cancer, cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, mental health disorders, musculoskeletal diseases and substance use disorders.
The annual disease burden is forecast to increase by 21% between 2019 and 2043, with the same top five leading causes.
Since the pandemic, the cost of living crisis has brought further financial strain to families, affecting their ability to access healthy food and heat their homes. In Grampian, 1 in 8 children are living in poverty and recent trends in child health are also getting worse.
Our healthcare system continues to be under acute pressure and our ability to continue to deliver safe, effective, person centred, and sustainable care is under threat.
Scotland’s and Grampian’s health is also facing other emerging threat from new infectious diseases, climate change and the rising cost of living. All of this will also contribute to worsening health and demand for health and care.
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