Health survey 'not an easy read', director says

Brighton and Hove's largest ever health survey is "not an easy read" as it shows "inequalities affecting our communities", the council's director of public health says.

Health Counts – conducted by Brighton & Hove City Council's public health team and the University of Brighton – is carried out once every decade.

The survey showed that 56% of adults living in the most deprived areas of the city were in good or better health - compared to 76% in the least deprived areas.

Caroline Vass, the council's director of public health, said: "The findings are not an easy read, [they are] covering sensitive areas and evidencing health inequalities affecting our communities - while recognising their strengths and resilience."

The survey found:

• 25% of those living in the most deprived areas smoked, compared to 9% of those living in the least deprived areas

• 65% of those living in the most deprived areas of the city did less than 30 minutes of sport and fitness activity in the last week, compared to 48% living in the least deprived areas

• 69% of people thought they were in good, very good or excellent health, but 24% recorded a low happiness score

• 20% had taken drugs not prescribed to them and not available at a chemist or pharmacy in the last 12 months

• 19% of those who gambled experienced at least one gambling-related harm

• 37% were a healthy weight, 36% were overweight and 25% were obese

The survey, which was carried out between March and April 2024, received responses from more than 16,500 people - representing 7.2% of the city's population aged 18 or older.

Residents answered questions on topics including general health, emotional wellbeing and alcohol and drug use.

For the first time, the 2024 survey also included questions on gambling-related harm, suicidal thoughts, harassment and hate crimes.

The results will inform the city's Joint Strategic Needs Assessment and strategies to improve health and reduce inequalities.

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.