Population

Demographics

Ageing Population

Mortality

Fertility

Population

Deaths

Introduction

Population demographics is essentially concerned with the number of people living in a country at a specific point in time. When we look into these numbers in more detail, we can see different patterns, and these patterns can help us to determine the health needs of different groups within the population.

One reason why population demographics is important for population health is because the age structure (how many people are in each age group) of a population has a major influence on the health needs of that population. The age structure of a population is affected by events such as births, deaths, diseases, and migration. These events will affect different areas to different extents so even within a country, there will be areas where the age structure is different to the national picture. For example, urban areas tend to have a wider variety of ethnicities and a higher proportion of younger people than rural areas.

When it comes to looking at some of the reasons why different groups of people within a population may experience different health needs, we need to consider the wider determinants of health. The wider determinants of health encourage us to look at the broader factors which influence our health. These can be economic (e.g. not having enough money to pay for things which might positively impact your health), social (e.g. not feeling as though you are able to participate fully in society due to discrimination) or environmental (e.g. living next to a busy road with lots of traffic fumes). Helping people to start well, live well and age well all depends on looking at the age structure of a population and thinking about how we can improve and optimize the wider environment.

The age structure of a population matters greatly for population health approaches because it helps both national and local governments to plan services based on predicted trends. We know that the UK has an ageing population and that England’s 85+ population is projected to double to more than 2.6 million in the next 25 years¹. This is something to celebrate but it also has to be factored into planning because the health and social care system rely on there being enough people of working age to both fund and provide care for the older population.

Another side-effect of increasing life expectancy is the number of people living longer with chronic illnesses, which is predicted to increase by 37% by 2040². The health needs of the population are also projected to become more complex as the number of people living with more than one condition increases. This will mean that whilst prevention will remain an important part of population health approaches, helping people to manage their conditions and live well will be vital. This will involve ensuring that they have access to the right services.

Why is it important to Population Health?

Population demographics is important to population health for several reasons:

Babies and Infants (0-4 years old):

Infant mortality is regarded as a key indicator of a society’s health and although rates of infant mortality are relatively low in the UK, there are still inequalities in where these infant deaths occur, with causes of infant death increasing along the socio-economic gradient.³
The health of an infant does not begin at birth. Biology is complex but it is becoming increasingly clear that certain experiences of a child in the womb, such as exposure to cigarette smoke or environmental stresses, can negatively affect how a child starts their life and develops.⁴

Children and Young People (5-17 years old):

Substance use, and the risks associated with that, is higher among younger people than older people. Due to the nature of younger people’s developing physiology, they are more vulnerable to environmental hazards such as air pollution, heavy metals, and chemicals. Mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression are also one of the leading causes of illness and disability among adolescents.⁵
Adolescence is a crucial time of transitions and development in people’s lives. For this reason, inequalities in the form of overcrowded housing and limited access to resources (such as green spaces and safe places to exercise and socialise) have the potential to reduce opportunities and alter the life course of individuals. Some of the outcomes of inequalities in exposure are that obesity rates and rates of dental decay are higher among children living in the most deprived areas compared with children living in the least deprived areas.⁶

Working Age Adults (18-64 years old):

Old-age dependency ratio: this is defined as the number of individuals aged 65 years and over per 100 people of working age versus those aged 20-64 years.⁷ This number reflects the degree to which those of working-age population will need to support those who are retired. As the population ages, this dependency ratio is predicted to increase.
Total fertility rates are declining among the working-age population in the UK. The reasons for this are complex and influenced by social, cultural, biological, and environmental factors. In terms of health inequalities, environmental pollutants (to which those who are more socio-economically disadvantaged are more exposed)⁸ have been linked to changes in the endocrine system (responsible for the regulation of hormones) and worsening reproductive health.⁹ Whilst the exact cause is not clear, it has also been found that higher rates of admission for conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease and ectopic pregnancies occur among those living in the most disadvantaged areas of the UK.¹⁰
The proportion of working-age people who report having a long-term condition has been increasing in recent years. For those working-age people who are economically inactive due to health reasons, the two most common health conditions reported are depression, bad nerves or anxiety, and musculoskeletal problems.¹¹
Different groups within populations are more likely to experience avoidable health inequalities. For example, people who are unemployed are less likely to have access to green space and healthy food and more likely to live in poor quality accommodation. These circumstances affect the entire life-course of an individual and subsequent generations.
Deprivation and suicide are positively correlated among working-age adults, with higher rates of suicide among the most deprived decile.¹²

Older People (65+ years old):

Rising life expectancy is a positive achievement in any society, although it does mean recognising that limitations on activities of daily living (ADLs), such as showering and dressing, begin to steadily increase from the age of 65. Whilst this does not necessarily mean that people will have greater social care needs, limitations on ADLs and social care need are closely linked.¹³
Long-term conditions increase with age. This does not necessarily mean that a person will have greater social care needs nor be able to live independently. It will mean, however, that healthcare systems will need to help people to manage these conditions so that they can age well and remain independent.
Older people can sometimes be more at risk of suffering from loneliness, which is a subjective feeling that can result from a lack of meaningful social contact.¹⁴ The COVID-19 pandemic made this connection between ageing and loneliness more obvious.
Integrated care within healthcare systems will become increasingly important as evidence shows that the healthcare needs of people with the highest needs are becoming more complex.¹⁵

The Derbyshire Population Health Approach

The Derbyshire Population Health Approach focuses on prevention, population health, evidence-informed practices, causes, and collaboration. It emphasises proactive measures to prevent health issues, tailors interventions to specific populations, incorporates evidence-informed practices, addresses underlying causes, and promotes collaboration for effective action.

When considering the population within The Derbyshire Population Health Approach:

• Prevention

The population health approach to population demographics begins with prevention through informed policymaking. It involves anticipating the changing age structure of a population and proactively implementing policies and programmes to address potential health and social challenges associated with different age groups. This may include preventive measures to promote healthy ageing and prevent age-related health conditions.

• Population

A population-centred approach involves understanding the demographic composition of a community, including age groups. It emphasises the need to tailor interventions and services to the specific needs of various age cohorts, such as children, young people, working aged adults, and older people. By recognising the unique health concerns of different age groups, population health initiatives can better target resources and support.

• Evidence

The population health approach relies on evidence-informed practices to guide policies and interventions related to age demographics. Research and data analysis help identify trends, health disparities, and emerging issues within specific age groups. This evidence informs the development of programs that promote healthy ageing, support child development, and address age-related health conditions.

• Causes

Understanding the causes of demographic shifts is crucial. Population health initiatives consider factors such as birth rates, mortality rates, migration patterns, and societal changes that influence the age makeup of a population. By comprehending these causes, interventions can be designed to address both the challenges and opportunities associated with changing age demographics.

• Collaboration

Collaboration is essential in addressing age-related population dynamics. This involves partnerships between healthcare providers, social services, educational institutions, community organisations, and policymakers. Collaborative efforts can lead to the development of age-friendly policies, intergenerational programmes, and services that cater to the needs of diverse age groups within the population.

Latest Derbyshire Data

Population by Age and Area
Area	0 - 15 years	16 - 64 years	65+ years	Total
Derby	53,497	169,039	43,924	266,460
Derbyshire	136,600	492,390	182,459	811,449
Amber Valley	21,142	77,143	29,424	127,709
Bolsover	14,267	51,533	17,029	82,829
Chesterfield	17,541	64,068	23,274	104,883
Derbyshire Dales	10,295	40,429	20,806	71,530
Erewash	19,402	70,577	23,865	113,844
High Peak	15,110	55,757	20,702	91,569
North East Derbyshire	17,391	61,560	26,084	105,035
South Derbyshire	21,452	71,323	21,275	114,050
Source: Mid-year estimates 2023

Source: Census 2021

Local Authority	1 - Most deprived	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10 - Least deprived	Total
Amber Valley	4,716	8,508	11,266	8,920	26,013	9,625	16,559	16,122	17,856	9,244	128,829
Bolsover	2,912	14,754	15,950	15,830	11,419	8,497	1,723	8,660	1,560	0	81,305
Chesterfield	9,500	21,344	15,412	13,405	10,405	5,056	11,473	3,029	9,819	5,487	104,930
Derbyshire Dales	1,641	0	0	0	8,152	11,734	10,935	12,723	18,143	9,094	72,422
Erewash	6,010	10,670	17,801	3,670	11,476	9,793	16,825	10,670	10,906	17,511	115,332
High Peak	4,251	1,466	3,753	10,645	11,985	7,543	8,879	21,780	12,454	9,877	92,633
North East Derbyshire	5,237	5,111	9,503	12,116	11,182	10,868	13,186	7,878	16,057	11,078	102,216
South Derbyshire	0	5,617	4,759	4,539	16,952	14,589	8,444	20,263	15,741	18,612	109,516
Derbyshire County	34,267	67,470	78,444	69,125	107,584	77,705	88,024	101,125	102,536	80,903	807,183

Source: Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government IMD 2019, ONS LA mid-year population estimates 2020

Trend Data

Derbyshire Quilt

Prevalence Maps of Derbyshire

The maps below illustrate Lower Super Output Areas (LSOAs) and Middle Super Output Areas (MSOAs) for Derbyshire. LSOAs and MSOAs are geographical divisions used for statistical purposes, allowing for more detailed analysis of local data. In these maps, you can explore various health indicators and data for Derbyshire, providing valuable insights into the area’s health and wellbeing.

LSOA
MSOA

In the top right of the map, you’ll find the ‘Layer Control’ icon. This is an easy way to customise what you see on the map visualisation. Click the ‘Layer Control’ to choose which information is displayed on the map. Pick the indicator that interests you the most, and the map will transform accordingly.

Further Analysis & Assessments

Derbyshire Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) involves a thorough examination of a specific health problem, exploring its causes, consequences, and underlying factors. It combines various data sources, collaboration with stakeholders, and rigorous analysis to generate insights for evidence-informed interventions and policy changes.

More Information & Resources

Here is a list of useful resources and information about our population. These materials are meant to provide individuals, healthcare professionals, and communities with the knowledge and tools when considering Derbyshire’s population.

Contributors

Genevieve Matthews, Knowledge and Intelligence Officer (Epidemiology), Knowledge and Intelligence Team