‘The Glasgow Effect’ is a term scientists came up with to investigate why Scotland – and in particular the areas around Glasgow – has a higher death rate than other parts of the United Kingdom. The ‘Glasgow Effect’ outlines the most probable causes that could cause this higher death rate. The report compared Glasgow with other deprived cities like Liverpool and Manchester.

This trend has been increasing over time and is found throughout all of the adult age groups – but especially that of the younger working age and is seen more within the people from a poorer social background, which is of course very concerning.

The death rates in Glasgow show that the leading cause  of mortality is  suicide, which when compared to Liverpool and Manchester, is almost 70% higher! The deaths linked to drugs and alcohol misuse is almost 50% higher in Glasgow . This is linked to my earlier post where I talk about Scottishness and Scottish culture. With the rise of binge drinking and party drugs in urban areas, the death rate has also risen. This could explain why he death rate is more predominant in the younger working class. Linked with a poor diet and lack of exercise, causing obesity, heart disease and diabetes. This Scottish Culture is killing us.

Scotland’s nickname within Europe is ‘The sick man of Europe’ which is quite shocking in itself. Does this mean that just because I am Scottish, I will get sick? That I will die earlier than young people elsewhere? The Scottish Culture and lifestyle plays a huge role in this young mortality, but it is indeed also related to our socio-economic status.

In order to ensure we live longer – we must make conscious changes to the way we live our life.