The UK death rate has reached a record low, according to an exclusive analysis conducted for BBC News. Researchers examined death certificates registered in 2024 and found that the number of deaths per head of the population had not only returned to pre-pandemic levels but had also fallen slightly below the previous record low set in 2019. This finding suggests that the country has resumed its long-term trajectory of gradual improvement in mortality rates, despite fluctuations in recent years.
The research was carried out by the Continuous Mortality Investigation (CMI) at the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries. The findings indicate that while the UK has successfully returned to its expected trend, the pace of improvement has been slower than in previous decades. Experts point out that although the decline in death rates is a positive development, it is important to examine the underlying factors that may have contributed to the latest figures.
Stuart McDonald from the CMI highlighted that the past five years have shown “basically flat mortality improvement,” describing the trend as “pretty poor by historical standards.” He further noted a concerning increase in death rates among younger working-age individuals, suggesting that not all age groups are benefiting equally from the broader trend. This raises questions about potential disparities in health outcomes and whether certain groups are being disproportionately affected by emerging health risks.
A spokesperson for the Department of Health responded to the findings, stating that the government remains committed to shifting its focus from treating sickness to prioritizing prevention. Public health initiatives, they emphasized, are now geared toward addressing key risk factors such as obesity, smoking, and cardiovascular disease, which have historically played a major role in mortality rates.
The UK’s death rate has been steadily declining for decades, with significant reductions recorded between 1974 and 2011. This progress has been largely attributed to advancements in medical treatments, public health interventions, and lifestyle changes, particularly in relation to smoking cessation and the treatment of heart disease. These improvements had previously resulted in a consistent reduction in mortality before the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
While the return to record-low mortality is a positive indicator, experts caution that the UK’s progress is slower compared to historical patterns. Public health policies, access to healthcare, and socioeconomic factors will continue to play a crucial role in shaping future mortality trends. As the government shifts its strategy toward prevention, it remains to be seen how effectively these measures will address the challenges that remain, particularly among younger demographics experiencing higher mortality rates.
Ultimately, the latest figures reinforce the importance of sustained investment in healthcare and preventative measures to ensure that the downward trend in death rates continues. While the UK has successfully regained pre-pandemic levels, the country must now focus on accelerating improvements and addressing disparities that threaten to undermine overall progress.
