Chapter 3 The health of Australian youth

Risks to health Smoking Unprotected sexual activity Unsafe driving practices Alcohol consumption Poor diet Physical activity/inactivity Can you think of anymore???

Long term conditions Obesity/overweight Substance use Injury Accidents Mental health

Causes of youth mortality and burden of disease

Mortality Injury 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 disease Mental 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 conditions Characterised 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 system

Disability Refers 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.