New figures show more than 110,000 people died in England in 2025 from causes considered preventable or treatable through effective public health measures or timely healthcare. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said on Monday that 110,804 deaths in England were from avoidable causes, representing 20.7 per cent of all registered deaths.
In Wales, a further 8,011 deaths were classified as avoidable, accounting for 22.4 per cent of all deaths. The figures also reveal a stark health divide, with men living in England’s most deprived areas almost four times more likely to die from avoidable causes than those in the wealthiest areas.
Circulatory diseases a leading cause
Circulatory diseases, including conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, were the second-largest category of avoidable mortality, behind cancers. Dr Francesco Lo Monaco, Harley Street-based cardiologist and founder of the National Longevity Clinic, says the figures underline the importance of identifying health risks before they develop into something more serious.
“One of the biggest misconceptions I encounter is that if you feel well, you must be healthy. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. High blood pressure, raised cholesterol and early metabolic problems can develop for years without producing obvious symptoms,” he said.
“By the time somebody experiences a significant health event, the underlying risk factors may have been present for a considerable period. We need to change the mindset from treating illness when it happens to identifying risk much earlier.”
Preventative healthcare for all
The expert says preventative healthcare should not be reserved for people who are already experiencing symptoms or approaching retirement. He adds: “Longevity isn’t simply about trying to live to 100. It’s about protecting your health and maintaining your physical and mental capabilities for as long as possible. The earlier we understand our health risks, the more opportunity we have to do something constructive about them.”
Dr Lo Monaco says there are three important areas people should understand when assessing their long-term health, and he advises that simple checks could make a big difference.
Key health checks
High blood pressure often has no obvious symptoms but can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease. He says: “A blood pressure check is one of the simplest and most important things people can do for their health. You can feel completely normal while your blood pressure is persistently elevated. Knowing your numbers means you can take appropriate action.”
A full lipid profile measures different types of cholesterol and fats in the blood. Raised LDL cholesterol can contribute to fatty deposits building up inside arteries. The doctor advises: “Cholesterol is particularly important because it isn’t something you can judge by looking at someone. You can be slim, exercise regularly and feel healthy, but still have raised cholesterol. Family history also plays an important role.”
An HbA1c blood test measures average blood glucose levels over approximately two to three months and can help identify prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. Dr Lo Monaco adds: “Metabolic health is a huge part of preventative medicine. People often think diabetes only affects those who are overweight, but that’s not the whole picture. Family history, age and genetics also matter. Identifying raised blood sugar early gives people an opportunity to address their risk.”
A VO2 max assessment measures how efficiently the body uses oxygen during exercise, providing an indication of cardiorespiratory fitness. The doctor says: “Cardiovascular fitness is an important part of longevity. We shouldn’t just be interested in how much someone weighs, but how well their heart and lungs support them during physical activity. Maintaining fitness and muscle strength are important for healthier ageing.”
