Are Our Modern Lifestyles Making Us Unhealthy?

We live in an age of remarkable progress. As Australians, our life expectancy is higher than ever, infectious diseases are far less common, and advances in technology, agriculture and convenience have transformed how we live. We have abundant food, clean water, and countless labour-saving tools designed to make everyday life easier.

While these changes have brought exceptional benefits, they have also introduced new challenges. Many of the lifestyle habits made possible by the 21st century, such as increased sitting, less movement, easy access to energy-dense foods, are contributing to a rise in chronic disease. The good news is that with the right insight and support, many of these risks can be identified early and improved.

Chronic disease is now the biggest threat to our long-term health

A national survey from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) found that chronic diseases now account for the majority of deaths in Australia, replacing the acute illnesses that dominated a century ago. Conditions such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and many cancers all share common lifestyle contributors.

Reducing harmful behaviours including smoking, excessive alcohol intake, unhealthy diet, inactivity and obesity, can significantly reduce the risk of developing these diseases. In public health, the impact of these behaviours is often measured through Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), which represent years of healthy life lost due to disease. Improving lifestyle choices directly reduces DALYs, allowing more Australians to live longer, healthier lives.

Key lifestyle factors influencing today’s health risks

1. Smoking

Although daily smoking rates in Australia have fallen, down to 8.3% of adults in 2022-23, it remains one of the country’s most significant preventable health risks. Smokers are six times more likely to develop emphysema than non-smokers, and are at much higher risk of heart disease, stroke and vascular problems. As fewer Australians smoke, we continue to see declines in related health complications, reinforcing the importance of quitting.

2. Alcohol and diet

Low and moderate alcohol consumption may carry some protective effects, but high intake is clearly associated with serious health risks, including cardiovascular disease, liver cirrhosis, several cancers and other chronic conditions. According to data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, about 31 per cent of Australians aged 14 and over reported drinking at levels that put their health at risk.

Unhealthy dietary patterns also contribute significantly to chronic disease. Given that diet is a highly modifiable risk factor, improving food quality and reducing excess calories remain central to supporting long-term health.

3. Weight and metabolic health

Regular assessment of weight, blood pressure, blood glucose and cardiac function can help detect early warning signs. Working with Health Coaches and Dietitians provides structure, guidance and personalised strategies to support healthier eating and weight management over time.

4. Inactivity and sedentary lifestyles

Despite knowing the benefits of movement, modern life makes it far too easy to spend long hours sitting. According to recent AIHW data, nearly four in ten adults (37%) aged 18–64 are insufficiently physically active, with older age groups and women showing even higher rates of inactivity.

Sedentary behaviour significantly raises the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol and mental-health conditions. Regular physical activity goes well beyond disease prevention. It helps manage stress, supports mood, boosts mental alertness and strengthens resilience.

A proactive approach to 21st century health

While our modern environment can make healthy living harder, it also gives us access to better tools than ever before. Comprehensive health assessments allow you to understand your risks early and take meaningful steps to protect your long-term wellbeing.

Life First offers advanced screening for cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other chronic conditions through our comprehensive health assessments. Our clinicians help identify risk factors, address lifestyle challenges and provide a personalised plan to support a healthier, stronger and more enjoyable 21st century life. Contact the team to learn more.