Charles Flanagan
Question:34 Mr. Flanagan asked the Minister for Health and Children his views on Irish death rates as compared to other EU States. [12591/02]
Written Answers. - Irish Death Rates.
Life expectancy is the composite measure which provides the best overall summary of mortality rates. Since the 1950's, life expectancy at birth in Ireland has increased by a decade for men and by 12 years for women. During the same period, however, life expectancy across the European Union has shown even more striking improvements, and Ireland continues to be below the EU average.
The reasons we continue to lag behind other EU countries become clear when we examine specific causes of death and mortality rates across the age spectrum. Ireland's record on infant mortality remains very good by international standards and is not a contributory factor to below average life expectancy. The main contributors are cardiovascular diseases and cancers which together account for nearly 65% of all deaths in Ireland each year. Life expectancy at age 65 for both men and women in Ireland remains the lowest in the EU reflecting the high mortality from these conditions.
These major causes of mortality are discussed in some detail in the second chapter of the health strategy and the strategy incorporates many strands of activity in order to deliver a healthier population and a world-class health system. The national cancer and cardiovascular strategies both have preceded the health strategy and will continue to be implemented. These strategies are supported by the heart health task force and forum and the cancer forum. In addition, population health divisions will be set up both within the Department and in the health boards.
It is recognised that improvement in life expectancy requires taking intersectoral action on lifestyle and environmental factors and taking more deliberate and assertive steps to address health inequalities. The first national goal of the health strategy is better health for everyone, and many of the actions set out in the health strategy under this goal will be instrumental in effecting improvements.