Poorest children in England 40% more likely to be hospitalised for lung infections

The Guardian has obtained analysis of NHS data revealing a stark health gap between rich and poor in England: children in the most deprived areas are forty percent more likely to be hospitalized for respiratory infections. In 2024-25, nearly two percent of children in those communities were admitted to hospital for lung illnesses. The disparity underscores how air pollution and economic circumstances shape childhood health outcomes.

Listen to this story

Hear this and more stories in a personalized audio briefing.

Open The Chonkerton