Island Health has released the 2025 Population Health Status Report, offering an in-depth look at the health of people across the region with a focus on children and youth.

Among the trends, the report notes a 41 per cent drop in child and youth poverty between 2016 and 2021, childhood immunization rates that now exceed the provincial average, and declining rates of substance use and self-harm among youth.

Dr. Réka Gustafson, Island Health’s Chief Medical Health Officer says from decreasing child poverty rates to improved youth mental health, they’re seeing positive shifts that reflect the strength and resilience of Island communities.

The report also notes declining life expectancy and differences in health outcomes driven by social determinants of health including geography and income.

Life expectancy varies by up to eight years depending on where people live within the region, with men disproportionately affected by premature mortality, largely due to unregulated drug poisonings.

Residents continue to use more tobacco, cannabis, and alcohol compared to the rest of the province despite an overall decline in use.

The report also highlights ongoing mental health challenges among youth, including a notable decline in their sense of community connection since 2018.

While some indicators are trending in a positive direction, overall youth mental health has yet to rebound to pre-pandemic levels.

The report is intended to serve as an engagement tool to support dialogue among public health staff, clinicians, local governments, and community organizations across the Island Health region.

To learn more, visit Island Health.