Smoking Rates in Australia Continue to Decline
Smoking rates and unhealthy levels of alcohol consumption are down, but the percentage of adults who are overweight or obese has increased; rates of diabetes have remained stable after trending up over the last decade, but mental health problems and behavioural conditions have risen, according to the results of the Australian Health Survey, issued on 29 October.
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Joint Release
The Hon Tanya Plibersek MP
Minister for Health
The Hon Bernie Ripoll MP
Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer
29 October 2012Smoking rates and unhealthy levels of alcohol consumption are down, but the percentage of adults who are overweight or obese has increased.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics Australian Health Survey has found rates of diabetes have remained stable, after trending up over the last decade, but mental health problems and behavioural conditions have risen.
Welcoming the findings, Health Minister Tanya Plibersek and Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer Bernie Ripoll said the landmark survey will assist the government in making informed policy decisions.
“I’m particularly pleased smoking rates have continued to decline, reflecting tobacco control measures introduced by successive Australian governments,” said Ms Plibersek.
Ms Plibersek said obesity was a complex issue that required a sustained response. Since being established in January last year, the Australian National Preventive Health Agency has invested more than $21 million in obesity social marketing campaigns.
Mr Ripoll said the ABS, with assistance from the Department of Health and Ageing and the Heart Foundation, surveyed around 50,000 people over the past two years.
“This is the largest and most comprehensive health survey ever undertaken in Australia and the results will help guide government, health organisations, researchers and the public in their decision making,” Mr Ripoll said.
“The ABS has been providing information on the health of Australians for over 30 years and it has been critical in allowing us to plan and implement policies, which have helped improve health and health care in this country.”
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