Chronic wounds affect more than 450,000 Australians and cost the healthcare system more than $6 billion annually.
However, a recent report into chronic wound care has revealed how little people understand about wounds and how those wounds become chronic. Too many of us are relying on inaccurate sources of advice or delaying seeking treatment.
“There is a clear and persistent ‘she’ll be right’ attitude when it comes to wound care…This report shows that too many Australians are unaware of the signs of a chronic wound, or delay seeking help until the situation becomes critical,” Wounds Australia CEO, Jeff Antcliff, said.
Chronic wounds are wounds that have not progressed through normal healing stages in 30 days. They heal slower and often only heal partially, and they may recur.
The Australian Consumer Insights into Wound Care Report 2024 is the first major consumer-focused research project undertaken by the national peak body for chronic wound awareness and highlights a widespread misunderstanding of what constitutes a chronic wound and when medical help should be sought.