Poorest children in England 40% more likely to be hospitalised for lung infections
14 reported
An analysis of NHS England data by the charity Impact on Urban Health shows that children in England’s poorest areas are 40% more likely to be admitted to hospital for respiratory infections. The analysis, based on data obtained via freedom of information requests, found that 1,941 out of every 100,000 children in the most deprived fifth of England were hospitalised for respiratory illnesses in 2024-25. This compares to 1,380 out of every 100,000 children in the least deprived areas. Air pollution was identified as a significant risk factor, though the data did not provide an exact cause for the admissions. Experts cited poor-quality housing, overcrowding, damp, mould, and exposure to smoking as additional factors in deprived areas. The charity’s Ben Pearce called the figures “shocking” and “appalling,” and called for an overhaul of the UK’s Clean Air Act with legally binding targets.
What’s reported
Children in England’s poorest areas are 40% more likely to be hospitalised for respiratory infections, according to an analysis of NHS England data by Impact on Urban Health.
The analysis used data obtained via freedom of information requests.
In 2024-25, 1,941 out of every 100,000 children in the most deprived fifth of England were admitted for respiratory illnesses.
In the least deprived areas, 1,380 out of every 100,000 children were admitted for respiratory illnesses.
The groupings compared the 20% most deprived areas with the 20% least deprived.
In absolute terms, the poorest areas registered 82% more hospital admissions for respiratory infections, equivalent to a 41% higher rate when adjusted for population size.
Air pollution was identified as a significant risk factor, but the data did not provide an exact cause for the admissions.
Dr Gergo Baranyi of University College London said poor-quality housing, overcrowding, damp, mould, outdated heating systems, indoor air quality, and exposure to smoking are more common in deprived areas.
Air pollution is estimated to cause up to 43,000 deaths each year in the UK.
Ben Pearce of Impact on Urban Health called the figures “shocking” and “appalling.”
Pearce said planning decisions and systemic inequalities have meant lower-income communities live closer to busy roads and industrial sites.
Pearce called for an overhaul of the UK’s Clean Air Act with legally binding targets aligned with WHO guidelines.
Dr Helena Clements of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health said air pollution is damaging children’s developing lungs and widening health inequalities.
The Guardian approached the Department of Health and Social Care for comment.
Key figures
Dr Gergo Baranyi, senior research fellow at University College London
Ben Pearce, heading a programme on health effects of air pollution at Impact on Urban Health
Dr Helena Clements, officer for climate change at the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
Sources: The Guardian
