The proportion of citizens with chronic illnesses has risen to 40% from 29% two years ago, the Healthy Ireland survey conducted by the Republic’s Department of Health showed, RTÉ reported on November 22.
The survey was carried out among citizens aged 15 years and older; more than 7 thousand people were interviewed. Of these, 80% of respondents reported that they were in “good” or “very good” health, 2 percentage points less than in 2022. It should be noted that this figure has been decreasing over the last five years.
18% of those surveyed stated that they smoke; This figure has not changed for three consecutive years. E-cigarette use has increased from 6% to 8%, with 20% of women ages 15 to 24 using them daily or occasionally.
70% of respondents drank alcohol in the last 12 months (75% in 2018).
For the first time, this survey asked about drug use. It turned out that 21% of citizens have tried drugs at least once in their entire lives. 13% regularly use sedatives or tranquilizers, 6% use them without a prescription.
76% visit a family doctor (73% in 2018). 41% take antibiotics (two years ago it was 27%).
Also read: Ireland drinks less alcohol amid growing drug problems
Source: Rossa Primavera
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