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Scotland Ranked As Sickest Area Of UK: Survey

by Medindia Content Team on Feb 13 2006 12:37 PM

A health survey that probed into analysis of the nation's well being has revealed Scotland to be the top scorer with respect to an unhealthy neighborhood. Scotland infact deserves the credit of harboring 22 of the UK's 25 unhealthiest neighbourhoods.

Scotland residents were found to be overweight, indulge more on tobacco and alcohol compared to those who lived in England and Wales. They were also less likely to involve themselves in sports activities and were more likely to suffer from chronic diseases.

Britain' s healthiest neighbourhood has been projected to be Cheam, in Surrey, where residents spent the least (£890) on cigarettes in drink. This is closely followed by Greenock central, Seaton in Aberdeen, St James in Renfrewshire, Fairmuir in Dundee and Wyndford in Glasgow. Sadly, Bowbridge area of Dundee where nearly £1,100 was spent on an average every year has been regarded the sickest region.

The comprehensive study was conducted by Caci, an American statistics firm. It is hoped that data from the study would be used by the Government to identify areas where more investment in public health is needed. Health official, Phil Hanlon, Public Health Professor, Glasgow University has urged the need for immediate public health measures to improve the situation in Scotland.

'This study is not welcome in that it confirms our efforts are having an effect in some areas but not in the poorest ones. Much has been done, there's much more still to do. Scotland's health is improving but the pendulum is still to swing in the poorest areas, ' said Dr. Phil Hanlon.

The results of the study, based on private sector research and official information will be incorporated into the creation of a health database that would be updated regularly. It can even spot a street with the maximum number of health conscious or unhealthy residents.

'We believe this is a very sophisticated tool, using the best available information on key factors influencing health. There is now widespread recognition that policy in all areas of public service must be based on relevant information about the needs of local residents,' concluded a spokesman for Caci.

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