Mortality rate 3% higher than average for April

The mortality rate for April 2023 was 3% higher than the five year average for this time of year, according to provisional data from National Records of Scotland. 

The age-standardised mortality rate was 1,123 deaths per hundred thousand people. This takes into account the size and age-structure of the population. 

The number of deaths was 5,135, which was 9% higher than the average for the month of April over the last five years. This measure does not take into account how the population has grown larger and older over the years.

Head of Demographic Statistics with NRS, Julie Ramsay, said: 

“Mortality was close to average levels in February, but rose above average again in March and April. The rate of mortality has generally been above average in the past twelve months”

“Our data shows that ischaemic heart disease was the most common cause of death in April, accounting for 11% of all deaths. It was the most common cause of death for men, although for women the most common cause was Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia”. 

The full report Monthly Mortality Analysis, Scotland, April 2023 can be found on the NRS website.

These figures are provisional and are subject to change.

Background

The Monthly Mortality report provides headline figures every month, with much more information available in our downloadable datasets. These datasets all have interactive charts built in, to aid users in exploring the latest trends.

The data in this report is based on the date a death occurred - other analysis can be based on the date a death was registered.

The five year average does not include 2020 due to the unusual pattern of deaths in the first year of the pandemic. An explanation for this methodology agreed with statistics bodies across the UK is available on our website. 

Media enquiries should be directed to:
Donna Green
NRS Communications
Tel: 07775 027 380
Email: [email protected] 

Further information about the statistics is available from:
NRS Customer Services
Email: [email protected]