The good news is that fewer of us are smoking. That encouraging revelation doesn’t mean we’re the picture of good health, however.
Although Quebecers appear willing to give up that vice — dropping to 19 per cent in 2014-15 from nearly a quarter of the population in 2008 — the proportion of people using drugs has increased, according to numbers published by the Institut de la statistique du Québec.
Our health picture is not just about drugs and cigarettes: about one-fifth of the population regularly consumes sugary drinks, and nearly one-third are leading a sedentary lifestyle. Nineteen per cent of Quebecers over 15 are considered obese, up from 16 per cent back in 2008, the first time this survey was conducted.
Not dismal enough for you? Psychological distress is also on the rise, especially among women, with nearly one-third reporting they are at a high level of distress.
The Quebec Health Survey looks at preventive and at-risk behaviours, and studies the mental and physical health of the population, including in the workplace. It surveyed 45,760 Quebecers older than 15. In 2008, the sample was 38,154.
