New figures reveal thousands of 'avoidable deaths' in region each year |
Alcohol and drugs, along with tumours, cardiovascular or infectious diseases and injuries, contributed to a considerable share of fatalities.
The statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that avoidable deaths remain a significant public health issue.
The region recorded 11,387 avoidable deaths, of those 7,163 were preventable deaths and 4,224 were treatable.
The figures are cited in the ONS report Avoidable Mortality in England and Wales 2024, which are the most recent figures available.
Avoidable mortality rates in England and Wales in 2024 were lower than in the previous year (Image: Office for National Statistics (ONS))
Avoidable mortality refers to deaths in those aged under 75 years that could potentially have been prevented through effective public health, prevention interventions and timely and effective healthcare.
Preventable mortality includes causes of death that could largely be avoided through public health measures such as reducing harmful alcohol and drug use, improving health behaviours and addressing wider social determinants.
From 2022 to 2024, Norfolk and Suffolk accounted for 10,144 of deaths that could have been averted. Norfolk recorded 5,752 avoidable deaths, while Suffolk accounted for 4,392.
A high proportion of the national statistics highlight the impact of substance misuse.
A total of 12,913 alcohol-related and drug-related deaths were recorded, showing the ongoing impacts of addiction on health and mortality.
Oliver Clark of Rehab 4 Addiction (Image: Rehab 4 Addiction)
Oliver Clark, CEO of organisation Rehab 4 Addiction, which provides treatment for addiction, said: “Alcohol and drugs remain a major contributor to avoidable deaths, but this is part of a wider picture of health inequality, mental health concerns and social pressures.
“Early intervention, treatment access and community support can prevent these deaths, improve wellbeing, and reduce pressures on emergency and healthcare services.
“Addiction can affect anyone, and without support it can quickly become a serious health issue. But recovery is absolutely possible when people have access to the right treatment, guidance and community support.”