Ontario Faces 72% Surge in Chronic Illness by 2040, Report Warns
A new University of Toronto study highlights the urgent need for healthcare innovation to manage the projected increase in major illnesses.
- The University of Toronto's report projects that 3.1 million Ontarians will live with major illnesses by 2040, up from 1.8 million in 2020.
- Experts stress that Ontario's healthcare system must undergo a significant transformation to handle the anticipated rise in chronic illness cases.
- An aging population and rapid growth are key factors driving the increase in chronic diseases, such as diabetes, osteoarthritis, and cancer.
- Researchers call for a focus on prevention, early detection, and community-based care to alleviate pressure on hospitals.
- The Ontario government has initiated healthcare expansions, but experts warn that technological and organizational innovations are crucial to meet future demands.