Death rates point to Scotland wealth split

HUGE differences remain between the deaths rates of the richest and poorest people living in Scotland, figures show.

The Scottish Public Health Observatory (ScotPHO) figures revealed that in 2011 there were 424 deaths per 100,000 people from the most affluent 10 per cent of the population.

But this rate more than doubled to 1,014 per 100,000 in the least well-off group.

The figures also revealed that deaths rates in Orkney were 25 per cent lower than in Greater Glasgow and Clyde.

Yesterday’s figures also revealed that in 2010-11, only 15 per cent of adults living in the most deprived fifth of the population ate the recommended five portions of fruit and vegetables a day, compared with 28 per cent in the least deprived group.

Smoking rates ranged from 12 per cent in the least deprived fifth of people to 38 per cent in the most deprived.

Public health minister Michael Matheson said: “Overall, health in Scotland is improving, but health inequalities still exist.

“We continue to address these long-standing problems and we are taking significant action to cut alcohol consumption, reduce smoking rates, encourage active living, healthy eating, and promote positive mental health.”