Dementia has officially become the leading cause of death in Australia, overtaking coronary heart disease for the first time, according to new data released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). The report highlights the growing public health burden of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, driven by an ageing population and lifestyle-related risk factors. In 2023, nearly 17,400 Australians died from dementia-related conditions, accounting for 9.5 percent of all registered deaths. The condition has now surpassed coronary heart disease, which held the top position for several decades.
Women made up nearly two-thirds of those living with dementia in Australia, underscoring a gender disparity that continues to grow as life expectancy increases. The number of Australians living with dementia reached an estimated 425,000 in 2024. Projections from the AIHW indicate that this figure could rise to more than one million by 2065 if current demographic trends continue. The increase is largely attributed to population ageing, but health officials emphasize that many risk factors contributing to dementia are preventable or manageable through early intervention.
The AIHW report identifies several modifiable health and lifestyle factors that significantly affect the likelihood of developing dementia. These include physical inactivity, midlife obesity, smoking, unmanaged hearing loss, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. Evidence presented in the findings shows that addressing these risk factors across a person’s life could prevent or delay a substantial proportion of dementia cases.
According to health researchers, nearly 45 percent of global dementia cases could be prevented or postponed if known risk factors were fully addressed. This includes increasing access to education, promoting physical and cognitive activity, managing cardiovascular health, reducing social isolation, and improving nutrition. The report also notes the importance of early diagnosis and medical management of chronic conditions to minimize cognitive decline.
Women disproportionately affected by dementia in Australia
Dementia Australia, a national organization supporting people living with the condition, is advocating for a broader national response. Its Chief Executive, Tanya Buchanan, has called for a formal prevention strategy focused on brain health, integrated into existing public health initiatives. The organization is also urging the government to increase funding for dementia care services and public awareness campaigns. The economic cost of dementia in Australia is significant. In the 2020-21 financial year, health and aged care spending related to dementia reached approximately AUD 3.7 billion.
The increasing prevalence is expected to place further strain on Australia’s healthcare system, particularly aged care facilities and support services. While age remains the strongest non-modifiable risk factor, the report highlights the opportunity for individuals and health systems to reduce the national dementia burden through preventive action. Public health authorities are emphasizing the importance of early lifestyle changes and regular medical screening to help mitigate risk, particularly in middle age.
Public urged to manage hearing loss and blood pressure
The findings come amid growing global recognition of dementia as a critical health challenge. In 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) adopted a global action plan on the public health response to dementia, urging countries to implement evidence-based policies to reduce risk, improve care, and support research. Australia’s latest data contributes to this global effort by demonstrating the significant impact that domestic policies and personal health management can have on a national scale.
As dementia rates climb across Australia, experts urge urgent investment in prevention, early diagnosis, and support systems to manage growing care needs and ease pressure on health services. Additional measures include nationwide education on modifiable risk factors, improved access to cognitive health services, and integration of dementia care into long-term health planning. Coordinated policy responses, increased funding for aged care, and workforce training are also seen as essential steps to reduce future impact.– By Content Syndication Services.