Australia, in 2016, had an estimated population of 24.1m with some 15% (3.6m) over the age of 65 years. By 2050, the proportion of older people will increase 36% to 32.9m with a marked demographic shift toward population ageing. Those aged 65 years or older will comprise 22.5% (7.4m) of the total population.
Alongside the ageing population, diabetes prevalence is increasing – with the most recent statistics reporting ~1.1m people living with the condition. Of note is that in 2015 Australia had the highest spending per person with diabetes in the region at $7,652 to $14,498 USD, compared with the Western Pacific average between $693 to $1,246 USD.
The DR Barometer Community is a growing multidisciplinary network of thought leaders and organizations who are working together to address gaps in diabetes patient care. Join today to help improve vision health outcomes among people living with diabetes.