EXCELLENCE in medical research in Britain is not translating into better health for enough people, according to a new report by the Academy of Medical Sciences.

The report found that healthy life expectancy has fallen to its lowest recorded level, with inequalities persisting and economic inactivity due to ill health continuing to rise.

This comes despite Britain’s life sciences industry generating £146.9 billion in turnover in 2023-24 and employing almost 360,000 staff.

The academy also warned that the doctors and researchers who bridge NHS patient care and university research are “ageing and shrinking,” even as they are needed most.

Academy president Professor Sir Andrew Morris said: “The UK has a remarkable foundation in medical science. Our research is among the best in the world.

“However, this excellence is not yet delivering better health outcomes for enough people, and too much potential goes unrealised between discovery and patient benefit.”

Chief executive Rosalind Campion said: “We want to work with government, the NHS, universities, charities and industry to build a shared and honest picture of how the system is performing, so that investment and effort go where they can do the most good.”