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Impacts of chronic back problems
Publication
Release Date:
Topic: Musculoskeletal conditions
Citation
AIHW (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare) (2016) Impacts of chronic back problems, AIHW, Australian Government, accessed 26 June 2026.
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Chronic back problems are common conditions in Australia (16% of the total population) and cause of disability (28% of the total population with disability) in Australia. Chronic back problems can have a strong negative effect on a person’s quality of life, affecting their ability to participate in daily activities, work, family and social activities. This bulletin provides the latest detailed information on the impacts (in terms of quality of life and disability) of chronic back problems in Australia.
- ISSN: 2205-5010 (PDF) 1446-9820 (Print)
- ISBN: 978-1-74249-974-1
- Cat. no: AUS 204
- Pages: 16
Findings from this report:
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In 2014–15, an estimated 3.7 million Australians (16%, or 1 in 6 people) had chronic back problems
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In 2008–09, around 1.8% of total health-care expenditure in Australia ($1.2 billion) was attributed to back problems
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In 2011, 'back pain & problems' were the third leading cause of total disease burden and injuries in Australia (3.6%)
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People with chronic back problems are more likely to report poor quality of life than the general population