People in Wales have reacted to the findings of a new report which reveals that the gap in life expectancy between those living in the least and most deprived areas of the country is increasing. The data, released by Public Health Wales, has been looking at life expectancy and healthy life expectancy since 2011.
Life expectancy in Wales is 82 years for females and 78 years for males in this same time period. The figures for women's life expectancy for 2018-20 are the lowest since that reporting began. You can read the data in full here.
When comparing figures from across council areas it shows people in Monmouthshire have the longest life expectancy and healthy life expectancy for men and women. Life expectancy for women is 84.6 and men it is 81.6. Healthy life expectancy there is 69.3 for women and 68.7 for men.
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Meanwhile, Torfaen has the lowest healthy life expectancy for women (55.3) while Blaenau Gwent has the lowest healthy life expectancy for men (55.6). The lowest overall life expectancy for women is Blaenau Gwent (80). The lowest life expectancy for men is tied in Blaenau Gwent and Merthyr Tydfil (76.3).
Chief medical officer for Wales Sir Frank Atherton said: "We want people in Wales to live long and healthy lives and we’ve put in place a number of progressive policies to achieve that ambition. This data tool shows the public health inequalities prevalent across Wales and it’s important we learn from them to address these issues for future generations. We are committed to learning from this data, as well as encouraging healthy lifestyle behaviours, in an effort to improve the life expectancy of people in Wales."
The findings of the report took many people in Wales by surprise, with hundreds taking to WalesOnline's Facebook page to share their reactions. While many were delighted with the average life expectancy for their area, others weren't so impressed, with some saying they may consider moving elsewhere in hope of living a little longer.
Some were pleasantly surprised by the report. Those living in areas like Monmouthshire, Powys and Pembrokeshire were particularly happy as they recorded the highest averages in the country. "Looks like we win again," said Rhidian Morgan. "Just have to stay alive to prove it now."
Andy Thomas said the findings were "not bad," adding: "I've got about 30 left then give or take," while Clive Powell wrote: "Thank goodness we are not far from Monmouthshire." Matthew Yap added: "I'll be lucky to live until 76!".
Others were not so pleased. "This is shocking," said Jade-Louise Thomas. "I honestly thought the numbers would be so much higher". Andrew Perry wrote: "So that’s about 12 year of retirement. Thanks," while Alexandra Taylor remarked: "Great, I get a few years of my state pension before I die, oh joy!"
Some respondents were particularly morbid, with several remarking that the cost of living crisis and other factors could mean fewer people will reach old age. "Expect those to drop," said Danielle Jade OB. "We will die of hypothermia or starvation, can't afford to be alive."
Jeff Hill wrote: "I'd knock 10 years off this looking at the state of the NHS, and the problems of trying to see a GP," while Richie Preece added: "I'd say a lot less with current release on surgery wait times and backlogged appointments". Debbie Tolley responded to the post saying, "If they can can get the NHS treatment or diagnosis they need".
Meanwhile, Paul Jones wrote: "These figures will have to be radically adjusted after this winter, the cost of heating your homes, paying for quality food. This winter is going to kill off a far higher percentage of our older population I fear, plus more of the generation just under them."
The findings even motivated some to say they would look to move to the area with the highest average life expectancies. "Better move to Monmouth then," said Tony Jenkins, while Carl Stockden commented: "I'm moving to Monmouthshire, just to get the extra 4 years."
"Going to wait until I'm 76 then move to Monmouth lol," said Jeff Carmody, with Sarah Gittins adding: "I'm moving to Monmouthshire then lol". Andrew Rupucis, meanwhile, predicted the increase in those moving to the county, writing: "Better build more houses in Monmouthshire then."
Ultimately, some of those who chose to comment simply ignored the findings and remained confident that they were going to live a long and happy life. "Dunno where you got those figures," said Charlotte Jennick. "But I'm living until I'm at least 100 to get my telegram off the king." David Johnson added: "Keep on guessing, I ain't going anywhere".
