Trends in public awareness of sepsis in Australia from 2016 to 2025: a longitudinal analysis of four national surveys (Preliminary results)

Objectives and importance of studySepsis is a time-critical life-threatening condition, with over 80,000 cases annually in Australia. With approximately 80% of sepsis cases arising in the community, public awareness is essential for early recognition, prompt treatment and reducing sepsis-related morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to assess and report changes in public awareness about sepsis over time in the context of awareness initiatives. Study typeLongitudinal analysis of nationally representative surveys. MethodsSepsis Australia partnered with YouGov(R) to develop, conduct, and administer four national surveys between 2016 and 2025 to assess public awareness of sepsis. Data collected from a representative sample of Australians aged [&ge;]18 years included socio-demographic characteristics and measures of sepsis awareness and knowledge. Additional questions were progressively introduced on the link between sepsis and COVID-19, First Nations status, high-risk groups, post-sepsis syndrome (PSS), information sources, and perceived government support. Data were analysed descriptively, trends assessed using logistic regression, and subgroups (gender, age, residence, marital status, children [<18 years] at home, household income, and generation) compared using Chi-square tests with significance set at p<0.05. Comparisons were made across subgroups for each year, unless specified. ResultsThe sample over the four surveys, ranged between 1000 to 1232 respondents with similar demographic characteristics. Sepsis awareness increased significantly from 40% (2016) to 70% (2025; p<.001), but remained lower than for other conditions. Knowledge of symptoms; mortality (4%-6%), PSS (18%) and high-risk groups, such as pregnancy/postpartum (8%), was low. Women (46%-75% vs 34%-65% in men, p<.001), those aged >50 years (47%-83% vs 28%-47% aged 18-24 years, p=.01), those without a child (40%-75% vs 39%-62%, p<.001), non-capital city residents (43%-80% vs 38%-64%, p<.001 for 2022 and 2025), and unemployed respondents (46%-77% vs 35%-63%, p<.01) reported higher awareness. Differences in other subgroups were not significant. Social circle was the most common (34%) source of sepsis information and 46% respondents advocated for government support. ConclusionThe Australian general public awareness of sepsis has increased in recent years, coinciding with initiatives undertaken by Sepsis Australia and other organisations, though direct causality cannot be inferred. Gaps persist in awareness among men, and younger adults, and knowledge of PSS and high-risk groups is limited. A comprehensive, targeted awareness campaign should be considered to improve public awareness of sepsis. Key points- Sepsis mortality and morbidity is preventable through public awareness that promotes early recognition and triggers action to seek advice or emergency care. - Sepsis awareness in Australia has increased significantly in recent years but remains lower than other conditions. - Lower awareness of sepsis was reported in men, young adults, parents of children younger than 18 years, and in those who were employed. - Knowledge of post-sepsis syndrome and risk factors for sepsis is low. - A comprehensive public awareness is warranted to address the growing burden of sepsis in Australia.