Young Australians Facing More Heart Disease Deaths Linked to Obesity

Young Australians Facing More Heart Disease Deaths Linked to Obesity

03 Feb 2026

The University of Melbourne study found that preventable deaths from cardiovascular disease (CVD) increased by 19% in men and 13% in women over the last decade. Rates are climbing fastest among adults under 55, especially those living in disadvantaged areas.

Lead researcher Professor Tim Adair said the findings reflect higher obesity rates in childhood and young adulthood for this generation. He also noted that economic and environmental factors, such as cheap fast food and neighbourhoods that are hard to walk in, worsen the problem.

While weight-loss drugs like GLP-1 therapies may help, Professor Adair says healthy diets, exercise, and lifestyle education remain essential. He added that system-wide changes, such as improving access to healthy food and safer places to be active, are also needed.

https://www1.racgp.org.au/

Source: University of Melbourne / newsGP

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