Mental illness is up in young people, dementia is now the biggest killer: Australia’s health in 2026
A new report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare highlights that while life expectancy has stabilized, chronic conditions and mental health issues are rising among young Australians. Dementia has overtaken heart disease as the leading cause of death in the country.
Why it matters
This data signals a shift in public health priorities, emphasizing the need for better mental health support for youth and improved care for an aging population.
Australians’ life expectancy has increased steadily over time but dropped during the COVID pandemic, according to a new report released today by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare .
The article reports on government health statistics without political commentary or loaded language.
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