Doctor's Shocking Report: Child Health Declining in Wales

Children's doctors in Wales have issued a critical report highlighting a "shocking" decline in child health, with outcomes worsening or slowing across numerous indicators. The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) warns that without immediate action, Wales risks raising one of the unhealthiest generations in decades, with deprived areas disproportionately affected.

The analysis covers 12 indicators, revealing significant concerns such as vaccination coverage falling below targets and a sharp increase in asthma-related hospital admissions among children aged five to 14. Notably, over a quarter of five to six-year-olds exhibit tooth decay, with children in poorer areas nearly twice as likely to be affected. Furthermore, obesity rates in four to five-year-olds have reached a record high in Wales, surpassing other UK nations.

An estimated 135,000 children and young people in Wales live with a diagnosable mental health condition, impacting one in four young adults. Parents express significant concern, with a recent poll indicating less than a third believe the Welsh government adequately supports child health. The RCPCH urges the government to develop a clear Children's Health Plan focused on prevention, early intervention, data, targets, and investment to address these widening inequalities and ensure children's health is a long-term priority.