These differences are the context for some significant differences in health status. The most significant ethnic groups, are Chinese, Italian, and East Indian. Toronto population is aging. The increasing elderly population with its changing health needs will have a significant impact on the health care system. This statistic developed by Statistics Canada is widely used as a proxy for measuring poverty.
Homelessness is a major health risk.
The average number of hostel users between 1988 - 1996 stood at 25,000. As well, Toronto's rate remains high compared to the rest of Ontario. Low birth weight is most common for teenage mothers and women in the 40-44 age group. The most common communicable disease in Toronto are sexually transmitted disease. Toronto's incidence is generally higher than the rest of Ontario.