Australian women are experiencing longer life expectancies, yet this positive trend is accompanied by a range of complex health challenges. A recent report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) provides a comprehensive snapshot of women’s health across their lifetimes, revealing both progress and persistent issues.
The report highlights that while cancer rates have decreased over the past 25 years, younger women continue to grapple with higher rates of depression and other mental health conditions. The AIHW’s summary offers crucial insights into how women’s health evolves, influenced by factors such as lower wages, mental health issues, and domestic violence.
Health Outcomes Over a Lifetime
According to the AIHW, a baby girl born in Australia in 2024 can expect to live 85.5 years on average, with more than three-quarters of her life spent in full health. This marks an increase of over two years compared to men, who have an average life expectancy of just over 83 years. However, these gains in longevity come with a rise in dementia rates, which have become the leading cause of death among women, surpassing cancer.
“We have observed a decline in cancer mortality, especially for breast cancer. However, dementia remains a leading cause of death for women, responsible for almost twice as many deaths as men,” said Amy Young, head of the population health group at AIHW.
The report attributes the reduction in cancer deaths to increased screening participation, particularly among women in regional areas. However, screening rates are notably lower among First Nations women and those who speak languages other than English, highlighting a need for more equitable healthcare access.
Challenges in Mental Health and Preventative Care
Mental health remains a significant concern, with anxiety and depression being the most common conditions among women, except those aged 65 and over. The AIHW found that 25% of women aged 16 to 85 had experienced a mental illness in the past year, with nearly 45% having faced such issues at some point in their lives.
Dr. Adele Murdulo, CEO of the Multicultural Centre for Women’s Health, emphasized the importance of equitable healthcare access, especially for migrant women who are often under-screened. “It’s great to see overall improvements, but we need to see better screening rates for more equity,” she noted.
Preventative care is crucial for improving women’s health outcomes. Dr. Ramya Raman of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) highlighted the importance of regular health check-ups, even when women are well, to address potential health issues early.
“The best thing to do is to book in with your GP when you’re well. Preventative appointments save more time and money in the long run,” Dr. Raman advised.
Socioeconomic Factors and Health Equity
Socioeconomic factors also play a significant role in women’s health. Women often delay seeking medical care due to prioritizing family needs and financial constraints. The RACGP notes that current Medicare policies favor shorter consultations, which can hinder the diagnosis and treatment of complex health issues that women face.
Violence against women further complicates health outcomes. The AIHW report indicates that over one in four women have experienced family and domestic violence since the age of 15, a factor that significantly impacts their physical and mental health.
“Violence against women remains a key risk factor, affecting more than 2.7 million Australians,” Amy Young remarked.
Looking Ahead: Policy and Health Improvements
Recent policy developments offer hope for addressing some of these challenges. The federal government’s women’s health package includes increased support for menopause health assessments and contraceptive advice. However, experts stress the need for these initiatives to reach all communities effectively.
Dr. Raman emphasized the importance of increasing patient Medicare rebates for complex consultations, making healthcare more affordable and reducing hospitalizations. “Our focus is on ensuring that women receive the care they need, which will ultimately help reduce the severity of chronic conditions,” she stated.
As Australia continues to make strides in women’s health, the AIHW report underscores the need for ongoing efforts to ensure equitable access to healthcare and address the multifaceted challenges women face throughout their lives.
