People born recently in England and Wales can expect to spend fewer years of their life in good health than those born over a decade ago, official figures show.

Covid-19, healthcare delays and an increase in long-term sickness are likely factors in this decline. But the Office of National Statistics figures also reflect deeper social issues like widespread inequality, say experts.

Men born in England from 2020 to 2022 can expect to spend between 62.4 years of their life in good health — 9.3 months less than those born from 2011 to 2013.

Women in England can expect to live 62.7 years in good health, which is a drop of 1.5 years in just over a decade.