Report finds Canadians living longer, mental health declining

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September 13, 2023

Findings from Statistic Canada’s first annual Health of Canadians report include:

  • Canadians are generally living longer and healthier lives but life expectancy fell by more than half a year in 2020, the largest single-year decline in Canada since 1921;
  • Most Canadians consistently rate their overall health as very good or excellent but mental health declined and the prevalence of anxiety and mood disorders increased among vulnerable populations;
  • The prevalence of some chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease and obesity increased but lung cancer incidence decreased;
  • Fewer Canadians are meeting physical activity and nutrition guidelines but the proportion of heavy drinkers and smokers declined since 2015; and
  • While 85% have a regular healthcare provider, 4.7 million don’t and there are continued unmet healthcare and home care needs.
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