UK health officials analyse recent rise in excess deaths

UK health officials are analysing a rise in excess deaths seen in recent months, and circulatory diseases and diabetes are believed to be behind the increase.Figures from the Office for National Statistics show about 10% more deaths than expected since April this year.In the week ending 12 August England registered 9670 deaths including 878 excess deaths, 10% above the five year average. Wales registered 661 deaths, including 73 excess deaths, in the week ending 12 August, which is 12.4% above the five year average.1The Health Service Journal has reported “concern and analysis” in the chief medical officer’s team and the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities.A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care told The BMJ, “Analysis is ongoing, but early investigation suggests that circulatory diseases and diabetes may be partly responsible for the excess deaths. These latest results emphasise the importance of active management of cardiovascular risk,…
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