Sydney, Australia – A new report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) revealed that in 2022, four out of five Australians had multiple conditions listed on their death certificate. Nearly a quarter of individuals had five or more conditions recorded, emphasizing the complexity surrounding reasons for passing.
The report distinguishes between three types of causes of death – underlying, direct, and contributory. Underlying causes initiate the chain of events leading to death, while direct causes are what the individual died from. Contributory causes, on the other hand, significantly contribute to the chain of events but are not directly involved in the death.
Coronary heart disease, dementia, hypertension, cerebrovascular disease, and diabetes were among the top conditions involved in deaths in Australia in 2022. The report highlights the overlap of these conditions in deaths involving multiple causes.
Interestingly, the report also noted variations in causes of death between genders and age groups. For instance, dementia was the leading cause of death in women, while coronary heart disease topped the list for men. Younger individuals tended to die from external events such as accidents and violence, while older individuals passed away against a backdrop of chronic disease.
The report emphasizes the preventability of many diseases and injuries that lead to death, urging a comprehensive approach to health promotion, disease prevention, and management. Common risk factors such as tobacco use, high cholesterol, poor nutrition, physical inactivity, high blood pressure, and obesity were linked to the top conditions causing death.
To address preventable causes of death, programs promoting healthy lifestyles, regular health screenings, and measures to prevent accidents and violence, especially gender-related violence, are crucial. This holistic approach aims to reduce the burden of chronic diseases and injuries in Australia.
In conclusion, while death is inevitable, many of the leading causes of death in Australia are preventable. By targeting common risk factors and implementing effective prevention strategies, significant progress can be made in improving public health outcomes and reducing premature mortality rates. The findings from the AIHW report provide valuable insights for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and individuals alike, guiding efforts toward a healthier and safer population.