AUSTRALIA'S cardiometabolic health remains below pre-pandemic levels, according to the inaugural Wesfarmers Health: Australia's Health Index.
The report, launched in Canberra yesterday by Wesfarmers Health Managing Director Emily Amos and Assistant Minister for Health Ged Kearney, highlights significant health challenges, particularly in heart disease and stroke risk.
Wesfarmers Health aims to support public health through free screenings at SiSU Health Stations across the country, providing real-time data to track health trends which could inform future public health policies.
Key findings reveal Australia's 2024 health score is 92, indicating an 8% rise in the odds of having two or more cardiometabolic risk factors compared to 2018.
Gen Z leads in daily smoking rates, and almost one million Australians are at extreme risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Nearly half of Australians face elevated heart disease risks, and almost 60% do not regularly check their blood pressure.
Amos emphasised the growing demand on health services, driven by an ageing population and chronic disease.
Pictured: Emily Amos, Ged Kearney, A/Prof Karam Kostner, Director Cardiology, Mater Hospital Brisbane.
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