Link between recession and deaths

A new study by Oxford University claims to have found a link between recession and an increase in deaths from heart attacks, suicides and murders.

The study found that a 3% rise in unemployment leads to a 2.7% rise in heart attacks in men between 30 and 44.

The researchers say it also leads to an increase in murders 2.4% and the same rise in suicides in people under the age of 64.

However there was a drop in the number of road deaths as job losses grow.

The researchers said if a government spends above £115 per person per year in active labour market programmes, a 3% rise in unemployment would not affect suicide rates.

According to the latest available data from 2005, the UK government spends about £91 per head per year.

Dr David Stuckler, from Oxford University, said: "Financial crisis causes economic hardship for many ordinary people, but it does not have to cost them their lives.

"Our study suggests that investments in active labour market programmes can both help the economy and prevent rises in deaths."

According to the study, a 3% rise in unemployment could lead to a 4.2% drop in road deaths in European Union countries, including the UK, as an increased number of people choose to walk or take public transport rather than drive themselves.

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