Conditions that affect the bones, muscles and joints are known as musculoskeletal conditions. These conditions include long-term (chronic) conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile arthritis, back problems, gout, and osteoporosis or osteopenia (low bone density).
This report is regularly updated with data from a range of sources. There are differences in the source year and frequency of publication. For more information, see notes.
- Cat. no: PHE 317
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In 2022, around 7.3 million (29%) people were estimated to be living with a musculoskeletal condition
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Musculoskeletal conditions contributed to 10,446 deaths in 2022, or 5.5% of all deaths; largely as associated causes
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Osteoporosis contributed to 2,659 deaths or 10 deaths per 100,000 population in Australia in 2022
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After adjusting for age, the proportion of people living with a back problem decreased from 21% in 2001 to 15% in 2022