In a revelation that’s bound to stir both concern and action, a recent Australian Burden of Disease Study 2024 has unveiled a startling shift in public health risks. For decades, tobacco smoking held the notorious title of the leading risk factor for disease in Australia.
However, the latest data indicates a new, weighty contender has taken the lead: obesity.
The study, which meticulously quantifies the impact of various health risks on the Australian population, estimates a staggering loss of 5.8 million years of healthy life due to illness, injury, or premature death.
As the scales tip, obesity now accounts for 8.3 per cent of the total disease burden in Australia, surpassing the long-standing adversary, tobacco use. This shift is not merely a statistical blip but a clarion call for federal intervention. The government is urged to implement robust measures to combat obesity and its associated health risks, potentially sparing thousands from hospital admissions.
The decline in tobacco’s reign as the leading health risk is not without merit. There has been a commendable 41 per cent reduction in the disease burden attributable to tobacco since 2003, after age adjustments. This is a testament to the country’s relentless public health campaigns and tobacco control efforts, which have significantly reduced smoking-related deaths and diseases.
Professor Terry Slevin, chief executive of the Public Health Association of Australia, acknowledges the progress made over the past two decades.
‘The burden of disease in Australia has fallen by 10 per cent, and public health measures are playing an important part in helping us to be healthier and live longer lives,’ he states. The decline in tobacco-related diseases is particularly noteworthy, reflecting the success of Australia’s stringent tobacco control policies.
Yet, the battle is far from over. Smoking still contributes to 7.6 per cent of the disease burden, and the public health community cannot afford to rest on its laurels. The government’s recent vaping and tobacco legislation is a step forward, aiming to safeguard the health of Australians, especially the youth.
The study further reveals that over one-third of disease and injury cases could be prevented by reducing exposure to known risk factors. This is a significant opportunity for public health initiatives to make a difference.
Gender disparities in health outcomes are also highlighted, with males experiencing a higher total disease burden across most age groups, primarily due to higher rates of fatal burden.
Professor Slevin emphasises the urgency of addressing the obesity epidemic, which now stands as the main cause of preventable death and disease.
‘Obesity and overweight is now the main cause of preventable death and disease, causing 8.3 per cent of the burden of disease,’ he remarks. Additionally, dietary risks, including excessive salt intake leading to high blood pressure, contribute an extra 4.8 per cent to the preventable disease burden.
With the rising concern about obesity, what changes do you think need to be made in public health policies? We invite you to share your views in the comments!
Also read: Sarcopenic obesity robs people of their strength – but brief bursts of exercise help
