DERBYSHIRE: Mixed picture on health in county

A study has painted a mixed picture for health and prosperity in Derbyshire.

The Derbyshire Director of Public Health annual report highlights the need for all ages to improve diets, adopt more active lifestyles and reduce the use of harmful substances like tobacco, alcohol and other drugs.

But the study states that generally Derbyshire people are healthier than the national average.

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Cllr Dave Allen, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for health and communities, said: “The report shows very significant variations between the wealthiest areas compared to those of lower income.

“In the wealthier areas people can expect to live ten or more years longer than those in the lower income ones and to be in good health for many more of these years too.

“Many factors play a part in this so we will do everything possible to tackle this and create a healthier Derbyshire,” he added.

In Derbyshire men are expected to live 77.7 years, which is higher than the national average.

Women are expected to live 81.6 years − slightly lower than the national average.

The study comes as the county council takes back responsibility for public health after 40 years.