Glasgow’s age-old problem

New figures from the Office for National Statistics reveal Glasgow’s life expectancy is the lowest in the UK, while those from neighbouring East Ren are expected to live longer than residents of all but one Scottish local authorities.

The figures, which were released yesterday, reveal concerning information for Glasgow residents.

Average life expectancy of babies born between 2010 to 2012 was just 72.6 years for boys and 78.5 years for girls. Just three quarters of boys and 85 per cent of girls born in the city are expected to reach their 65th birthday.

In Scotland, East Renfrewshire’s figures are below only East Dunbartonshire, with men expected to live till 79.9 and females till 82.9.

Cathcart MSP James Dornan is concerned by the revelations.

He told The Extra: “These shocking figures show just how much still has to be done to improve the lives of many of our citizens.”

The report comes less than 100 days before the city welcomes some of the world’s best athletes for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.