What are the most significant health risks facing Canadians today – and what should we be most concerned about heading into 2019? According to the Chief Public Health Officer’s 2018 report on the state of public health in Canada and data and messages from Health Canada’s website, there’s a lot to talk about.
From an ongoing opioid crisis that has Canadians faced with the prospect of a nationally decreasing life expectancy to new challenges in youth substance abuse, Canadians must rally now more than ever to educate themselves and work together toward a healthy future. These are the most common health concerns in Canada.
The Most Common Health Concerns Facing Canada 2019
10. Mood Disorders
Mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder, are Canada’s most common health concerns. According to a report by the Mental Health Commission of Canada, mood disorders account for more than 60 percent of mental health illnesses. These disorders can be debilitating and often lead to poorer physical health, social isolation, and even suicide.
Many people with mood disorders do not receive adequate treatment. This is partly because mood disorders are often not recognized as serious illnesses. In addition, many people with mood disorders do not seek help because they are afraid of being stigmatized or judged.
Many effective treatments for mood disorders including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. If you think you may have a mood disorder, it is vital to seek help from a qualified professional.
9. Injuries
Injuries are the leading cause of death for Canadians aged 1-44. There are an estimated 1.2 million hospital visits due to injuries each year. The most common injuries are falls, motor vehicle collisions, and assaults.
Each province has a different top injury concern. In Ontario, the most common type of injury is falls, which account for 37% of all injuries. The most common type of injury in Alberta is motor vehicle collisions, which account for 43% of all injuries. In Nova Scotia, the most common type of injury is assaults, which account for 56% of all injuries.
There are many ways to prevent injuries from happening. Some tips include: wearing seatbelts while driving or riding in a car, using stairs instead of a ladder whenever possible, and being aware of your surroundings when walking or biking in public spaces.
8. Diabetes
Diabetes is one of the most common health concerns facing Canada in 2019. In fact, according to the Canadian Diabetes Association, diabetes affects one in three Canadians. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. This leads to a lack of insulin production and high blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes is a condition that develops when the body can no longer use insulin properly. This is often due to being overweight or inactive. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes can cause serious health problems if left untreated.
Symptoms of diabetes include excessive thirst and urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and nausea. If you think you might have diabetes, it’s essential to see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
7. Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in Canada. In 2019, it was estimated that one in five deaths would be from heart disease or stroke. The good news is that there are many things you can do to reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
The most common risk factors for heart disease and stroke include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, physical inactivity, and obesity. If you have any of these risk factors, it is vital to lower your risk.
This may include changing your diet, quitting smoking, and getting more exercise. It is also essential to see your doctor regularly for checkups. Early detection and treatment of cardiovascular disease can save lives.
6. Cancer
Cancer is the most common health concern in Canada. It is responsible for 30% of all deaths each year. There are many different types of cancer, and each one requires another treatment. The most common treatments for cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
There are many different types of cancer, but some are more common than others. The four most common types of cancer in Canada are lung cancer, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and prostate cancer. Each of these cancers affects different parts of the body and requires an other treatment.
The most common treatments for cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Surgery is used to remove the tumour from the body. Radiation therapy uses radiation to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
5. Vaping
In 2019, vaping is one of Canada’s most common health concerns. This is mainly because vaping can be extremely harmful to your health. Some of the most common health concerns of vaping include lung cancer, lung infection, and other respiratory problems.
Vaping is also known to increase your risk of other health problems, such as heart disease. Additionally, vaping can also be addictive, leading to long-term health issues. If you are concerned about the potential health risks associated with vaping, it is essential to consult with your doctor.
4. The Opioid Crisis: Spotlight on Fentanyl
In October of 2018, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) released a report on Canada’s most common health concerns. The report, based on data from 2017, found that mental health and addictions were the top concern, with opioids and fentanyl as the main threat.
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is up to 100 times more potent than morphine. It is often prescribed for pain relief after surgery or for chronic pain, but it can be addictive and lead to abuse. Fentanyl is also often mixed with other drugs such as cocaine or heroin, increasing its deadly effects.
The PHAC report found that fentanyl was linked to more than 3,000 deaths in 2017, 86% of the previous year. The majority of these deaths occurred in Ontario and Alberta.
3. Childhood Obesity
In Canada, obesity is the most common health concern for children. This is large because many Canadian children have unhealthy diets and do not get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
There are several things that parents can do to help their children stay healthy and avoid obesity. One of the most important things is to make sure that your child has a healthy diet. This means eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. It also means avoiding processed foods and sugary drinks.
Another important thing parents can do is ensure their children get enough exercise. This doesn’t mean they need to go to the gym every day; simple things like playing outside or going for a walk can be enough.
2. Physical Inactivity
Physical inactivity is one of the most common health concerns facing Canada. It is estimated that physical inactivity costs the Canadian economy $6.8 billion each year. In addition, inactivity can lead to some health concerns, including obesity, heart disease, and cancer.
There are several ways to reduce your risk of being inactive. One way is to make sure you are getting enough exercise. The Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines recommend 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week. You can also try to break up your day with short bouts of activity.
Taking a brisk walk for 10 minutes after dinner, for example, can help get your body moving. Another way to reduce your risk of being inactive is to make healthy choices when it comes to food. Eating fruits and vegetables, for example, can help you stay active and healthy.
1. Youth Substance Abuse
In Canada, youth substance abuse is among the most common health concerns. According to a recent report published by the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), prescription drug abuse, alcohol abuse, and illicit drug abuse are rising among young people.
The report also found that mental health issues are increasingly common among adolescents and young adults, with suicide now being the second leading cause of death for Canadians aged 10 to 24. There are many reasons for this increase in substance abuse and mental health problems among young people. One factor is that society is becoming increasingly more complex and demanding, putting a lot of stress on young people.
Additionally, many kids today are growing up in homes where there is a lot of dysfunction and instability. This can lead to feelings of insecurity and isolation, which may prompt kids to turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope.
