NHS Faces Criticism Over Rising Mortality Rates

A forthcoming report by Lord Ara Darzi reveals that NHS heart care is declining, resulting in the highest premature mortality rates from cardiovascular disease in 14 years, with deaths rising from 71 to 79 per 100,000 since 2019. This review, commissioned by the new Labour Government, highlights failures in basic care, increased waiting times for surgeries, and a 'postcode lottery' affecting access to treatment across the UK. Lord Darzi warns that the progress made on heart disease since the 1970s is being undone, exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. The report underscores the urgent need for reform within the NHS, as emphasized by Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer. It also indicates significant regional disparities in care, with deprived areas facing the highest risks, as patients under 75 in such regions are 2.6 times more likely to die from heart disease. The findings will inform the government’s ten-year plan to revitalize the NHS and improve cardiovascular health outcomes.