The health of Australian youth

Chapter 3The health of Australian youthRisks to healthSmokingUnprotected sexual activityUnsafe driving practicesAlcohol consumptionPoor dietPhysical activity/inactivity

Can you think of anymore???Long term conditionsObesity/overweightSubstance useInjuryAccidentsMental healthCauses of youth mortality and burden of disease

MortalityInjury and poisoning- leading cause of all youth deaths, most of these were male. This area also includes falls, transportation, accidents, intentional self-harm, assault and poisoning including pharmaceuticals, as well as fire, burns and scalds.

Cancer- contributes approximately 9% of all youth deaths, the most common types are melanoma, lymphomas, testicular cancer and leukaemia.

Burden of diseaseMental health disorders- accounts for 49% (anxiety and depression being the leading causes) 10% of males 32% of females

Injuries- from transport accidents and intentional self harm. Also from fighting, binge drinking, drink driving.

Obesity/overweight- linked to long-term health problems, such as asthma and Type 2 diabetes.

Long-term conditionsCharacterised by a diagnosed specific physical or mental condition or functional limitation.

These impact on the physical, social, intellectual and emotional development of the individual.

The most prevalent long-term medical conditions affecting young people are: respiratory conditions (asthma and hay fever), eye conditions and disease of the musculoskeletal systemDisabilityRefers to health conditions that relate to the way in which an individual functions in the community.

Measured in terms of impairments, activity limitations and participation restrictions for everyday activities being performed.