Hi TIS Teams! This month we’re looking at the latest First Nation Burden of Disease 2022 study from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW).

Published in March 2026, the study highlights the health burden caused by diseases linked to tobacco smoking, including conditions such as heart disease, cancer, respiratory disease, and lung conditions. These diseases are among the leading causes of poor health and early death among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The study looks at the burden of disease experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, including the impact of smoking commercial tobacco. This includes:
• how pain, disability and illness affect people’s daily lives and wellbeing
• how disease and commercial tobacco use can shorten life by causing early death
• the long-term effects of tobacco-related disease on quality of life.

Take Home Message for TIS Teams

Positive progress is being made, but commercial tobacco smoking continues to contribute to illness, early death, and health inequities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. TIS teams play an important role in supporting culturally safe, community-led smoking health promotion and healthier futures for communities. It is never too late to quit smoking.

Click on the thumbnail to the right to read Connie’s full update!

For more of Connie the Clever Cockie’s updates, visit the Tobacco Control News page.