John Bruton (Meath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 133: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the reason Ireland has the lowest life expectancy for both males and females amongst the former 15 EU countries. [18184/04]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The European Health for All database, published in January 2004, shows that for the year 2001, life expectancy for Irish males is 74.6 years and for Irish females 79.9 years. While there were a number of other countries among the former 15 member states of the European Union whose life expectancy was less than this, nevertheless, the Irish figures are less than the average for the former EU at 75.6 years for men and 81.7 years for women. It is encouraging to note, however, that life expectancy in Ireland is increasing by approximately one year every decade.

It is acknowledged that mortality from chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease contributes mainly to the Irish experience described above but it is encouraging, however, that there have been significant decreases in mortality from these conditions in recent years, especially for cardiovascular disease.

In recognition of the importance of these conditions, the Department of Health and Children has developed and implemented cardiovascular and cancer strategies which are expected to continue the trend of reducing mortality from these conditions.

Also, the health promotion strategy is tackling lifestyle issues which contribute to the development of these diseases. The recent successful smoking initiative is expected to play a significant role in reducing mortality from diseases linked with smoking.