More than three-quarters of Australians had a long-term health condition in 2020-21, with almost half reporting at least one selected chronic condition, according to new data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
The first release of the National Health Survey 2020-21 offers insights into health conditions and health risks amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mental and behavioural conditions (20.1%), back problems (15.7%) and arthritis (12.5%) were the most commonly reported chronic conditions in 2020-21.
For the first time, the survey also provided insights on e-cigarette use, with data showing that more than one in five (21.7%) of people aged between 18-24 have tried a vaping device.
Meanwhile, the survey indicated one in four (25.8%) of adults aged 18 and over exceeded the recommended Australian alcohol consumption guidelines, with over a quarter of men consuming more than 10 standard drinks a week.
The survey also revealed that more than half (56.6%) of Australians over the age of 15 rated their health as excellent or very good. Just over one in four (27.2%) met the physical activity guidelines in 2020-21, while four in 10 (41.8%) people aged 65 and over me the guidelines.
More information can be found at the ABS website
