Burnet Institute
Key Facts:
- Chronic inflammation, known as "inflammageing", is a slow, persistent biological process that can build over time.
- Inflammageing is increasingly recognised as a driver of long-term disease.
- Australia spends more than $270 billion annually on health, representing more than 10 per cent of GDP.
- Chronic conditions account for an estimated nine in 10 deaths nationwide and continue to drive the majority of hospital demand.
- Nearly half of Australian adults are living with at least one chronic condition.
- More than 80 per cent of Australians aged 65 and over are managing at least one chronic condition, and around half are living with multiple conditions.
- Older Australians account for more than 40 per cent of hospitalisations nationally, with demand expected to increase as the population ages.
- Dr Gugasyan says inflammation is part of the body's normal immune response, but it can be accelerated in some people.
- Lifestyle factors including nutrition, sleep and physical activity, such as strength and conditioning exercises, can support immune health and help reduce inflammatory burden over time.
Broadcast-quality video featuring Burnet Institute's Dr Raffi Gugasyan is available
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