Health check hitlist

Jun 27 2007 By Lawrence Conway

NEW figures reveal some of Harrow's health rates are among the worst in the country in three key areas.

Infant deaths, diabetes and children's tooth decay rates in the borough are well above the national average, according to the latest Department of Health report.

James Kincaid, vice-chairman of health watchdog Community Voice, said: "High infant death rates and tooth decay are associated with serious deprivation and would surprise people, especially in areas like Pinner and Hatch End. I think people would be horrified if the figures were put simply."

Harrow's high infant mortality rate was also highlighted in the figures, following on from the Observer's special report last month revealing infant deaths in the borough average 20 per year - more than a third higher than the national average.

The high level of diabetes, which is just 0.6 per cent below England's worst rate, recorded in neighbouring Brent, has been attributed to the area's large ethnic and elderly populations.

Dr David Lloyd, from the Ridgeway Clinic, Imperial Drive, North Harrow, said: "We have an aging population, rising obesity rates and a lack of exercise.

"It's a worsening phenomenon and the exercise, weight and diet message just isn't getting across."

However, it is certainly not all bad news and the report highlights positive lifestyle choices in Harrow.

Life expectancy in Harrow is above average and less than a fifth of adults in the borough smoke, compared to the national average of 25 per cent and England's worst rate of 37 per cent.

Just 10 per cent of adults in the borough were found to indulge in binge drinking and reported road injuries are less than average.

Mr Kincaid said: "When factoring in the areas of weakness it is not a brilliant perform a n c e overall but it is in line with the heath and economy.

"The areas of concern reflect the living conditions of some in Harrow, which could be quite a bit better."