A new publication by the World Health Organisation (WHO) has put male life expectancy at birth in Calton at 54, compared to 62 in India and 82 in Lenzie.

The findings are included in a report by the WHO’s Commission on the Social Determinants of Health which charts health inequalities around the world.

Commenting on the report, newly elected SNP MP for the area John Mason said: “These statistics are shocking but sadly familiar.

“Poor health has characterised the East End of Glasgow for far too long. It is absolutely inexcusable that life expectancy in Glasgow is lower than that of India where 80% of the population live in poverty.

“Clearly the area’s challenges are complex and will not be resolved overnight, but action must be taken on the blights that have held us back for too long. For example, measures to tackle excessive alcohol consumption and a lack of exercise as well as addressing maternal health, drug and alcohol misuse and early years provision.

“As a local to the area myself, I have been frustrated by the inaction of previous administrations to make real changes in the area but heartened by the news that the Scottish Government is taking health inequality seriously.

“In June, the Ministerial Taskforce on Health Inequalities Report ‘Equally Well’ set out a series of cross-departmental recommendations which the Scottish Government has pledged £1.8bn to support.

“Determination and commitment on this scale will make a real difference to health in the East End of Glasgow.”

Note:

The WHO report can be viewed here.