While the battle is by no means over, Australia has made significant progress in the war against ischaemic heart disease (IHD), otherwise known as coronary heart disease.
Accounting for 9.2% of deaths in 2023, IHD may soon lose its place as the leading cause of death in Australia, as deaths from dementia (including Alzheimer’s) threaten to overtake it, accounting for 9.1% of overall mortality last year.
IHD caused 30.5% of deaths at its peak in 1968, a year in which dementia accounted for only 0.2% of mortalities.
Now, the combination of an ageing population and improvements in heart health treatment, diagnoses and awareness are reshaping Australia’s healthcare landscape.
Dementia Australia calls for preventative measures
Dementia is already the leading cause of death for women, representing 12.2% of deaths in 2023 compared to 6.4% for men.
It’s also now the leading cause of death in South Australia, the ACT and – for the first time – New South Wales.
Given there is no cure for dementia, Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan says that the need for a public health approach to reducing and preventing dementia is urgent.
“This call is backed by the 2024 update of the Lancet Commission on the prevention, treatment and care of dementia, which reports that almost half of dementia cases worldwide could be prevented or delayed,” Professor Buchanan said.
“There are currently an estimated 421,000 Australians living with dementia and without a significant intervention, this number is expected to increase to more than 812,500 by 2054.
“As dementia edges closer to becoming the leading cause of death of Australians, it is crucial that we act now to focus on the brain health of the nation as well as provide more targeted, effective support to those impacted by dementia.
“Taking this dual approach will ensure we are working towards reducing the impact of dementia in the future.
“Australians currently impacted by dementia can access support now by contacting the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
There are several lifestyle changes and/or choices individuals can make to reduce their risk of developing dementia. These include:
- engage in regular physical exercise;
- reduce alcohol consumption;
- quit smoking;
- stay connected with your community, maintain active friendships;
- protect your eyesight and hearing; and
- avoid head injuries.
If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, please call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or visit dementia.org.au.