The Victorian Burden of Disease Study identified who is at greatest risk of early death among Victorians. Cancers, cardiovascular disease and injuries are responsible for two-thirds of early deaths in Victoria. Cancers are a more important cause of premature death than cardiovascular disease for people under the age of 75 years.
Causes in detail
It has been estimated that in the year 2001 in Victoria:
- High blood pressure caused over 10,000 deaths, mainly due to the occurrence of ischaemic heart disease and stroke.
- Tobacco smoking caused almost 4,000 deaths, mainly due to the occurrence of lung and other cancers and chronic airway disease.
- Obesity and physical inactivity together caused over 5,000 deaths, mainly due to the occurrence of diabetes, ischaemic heart disease and stroke.
Men versus women
Ischaemic heart disease (blocked arteries in the heart) is the leading cause of death for both men and women. Other major causes of early death include:
- Men – lung cancer, suicide, stroke and bowel cancer
- Women – stroke, breast cancer, lung cancer and bowel cancer.
Cancer is the leading cause of early death for both men and women.
Disturbing new trends
There is a disturbing trend towards:
- A rise in tobacco-related illnesses in young women
- Diabetes being among the top 10 causes of premature death in both men and women
- On the positive side, there is a decrease in the number of people dying from cardiovascular heart disease and injuries each year.
Geographical differences
Differences between country and urban Victoria include:
- Country Victorians can expect to live (on average) one to two years less than urban Victorians.
- A higher proportion of total deaths in country areas are due to cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
- Years of life are lost at much higher rates (premature death rates are higher) from accidents and injuries in the country.
Country people may be at greater risk of earlier death for many reasons. These include socioeconomic factors and the harsh effects of drought, combined with the limited nature of local services and the longer time taken to get to life-saving treatment, such as resuscitation and surgery.
Where to get help
- Your doctor
- Your local community health centre
- Department of Human Services Tel. 1300 650 172 or (03) 9096 0000
Things to remember
- Cancers, cardiovascular disease and injuries are responsible for two-thirds of early deaths in Victoria.
- People living in the country may be at greater risk of earlier death than city people.
You might also be interested in:
Alcohol.
Early death - how to reduce your risk.
Life expectancy for Victorians.
Smoking - effects on your body.
Smoking - the financial cost.
Smoking – quit services for diverse groups.
Want to know more?
Go to More information for support groups, related links and references.
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