Created by Research Australia in consultation with child health experts and using the latest data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, the 'Top 12 Health Issues Facing Australian Children' also puts high priority on rising problems associated with modern lifestyles such as mental health, obesity, and diabetes.

Issues which have caused concern for many years including immunisation, asthma and allergy, childhood injury, disability, cancer, sun awareness and child abuse, neglect and domestic violence are also featured.

The list was unveiled today at the launch of this year's "Thank You" Day program which celebrates the achievements of Australian health and medical researchers and urges them on to continue to address the burning issues affecting the nation's health.

Research Australia CEO Dr Christine Bennett said Australian children today enjoy good health compared to past generations thanks to major breakthroughs in medical research such as the discovery of penicillin, immunisation programs, better management of diseases like asthma and SIDS prevention.

"There are, however, areas of significant concern emerging which may threaten the quality and length of our children's lives," she said.

"The 'Top 12' includes life-threatening illnesses, common diseases and risk factors which impact healthy development and living. Australian researchers are tackling these issues, working hard behind the scenes to make a difference," she said.

Top 12 Health Issues Facing Australian Children

1. Indigenous Health life expectancy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders is an alarming 20 years behind that for all Australians, indigenous babies die at three times the rate of other Australians and children at doubl
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Contact: Jackie Crossman
jackie@crossmancommunications.com.au
61-402-218-662
Research Australia
9-Oct-2005