Musculoskeletal disorders second only to cancer as the leading cause of disease burden in Australasia

Musculoskeletal disorders second only to cancer as the leading cause of disease burden in Australasia

Australia’s health system must do more to address the growing burden of musculoskeletal conditions like lower back pain and osteoarthritis which are now second only to cancer as the leading cause of disease burden in Australasia, according to the findings of a pivotal international study released today.

The latest Global Burden of Diseases study which assesses burden consistently across diseases, highlights non-communicable diseases, particularly musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, as an emerging global issue that must be addressed in the coming decade.

“The Study shows that in Australasia, musculoskeletal conditions account for 15.3% of the total burden of death and disability, just behind cancer at 16.2% and ahead of heart disease (13.8%) and mental health and substance abuse (13%) These are all important health issues and recognised as national health priorities by the Australian government but to date MSK has not received an equitable level of priority.

To read the full media release click here