By Lilian Anekwe
Public health experts have called for greater focus and investment on tackling health inequalities, after a report estimated they cost the NHS £5.5bn a year.
The Government-commissioned report led by Sir Michael Marmot from University College London found people in the poorest areas of the country die an average of seven years earlier and 17 years longer in ill health.
Health Secretary Andy Burnham said the report will help the government implement a strategy to continue tackling health inequalities over the next decade.
