The graph shows (government) expenditure for patients admitted to hospital in Australia, by age, for 2012–2013 - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 19 - 2018 - Paper 1

To determine which options are most likely to contribute to admitted patient expenditures exceeding $2500 million, we need to examine the graph objectively.

1. Analyze the Graph: First, observe the data points on the graph. The expenditures rise significantly with age, peaking in the 85+ age group. The trends suggest older age brackets incur higher medical costs.

2. Evaluate Options:

   • A. Mental health and injuries: While this might contribute, it doesn’t specifically link to the highest expenditures.
   • B. Mental health and respiratory diseases: Similar reasoning applies; not a leading cause.
   • C. Cardiovascular diseases and injuries: Cardiovascular diseases are common in older populations. However, combined with injuries, it may not reach the highest expenditures.
   • D. Cardiovascular diseases and respiratory diseases: This option is notable because both conditions significantly affect older adults who are more likely to incur high hospital expenditures.

3. Conclusion: Given the rising costs associated with aging and the prevalence of cardiovascular conditions among the elderly, option D appears to be the most logical choice as the primary contributor to expenditures exceeding $2500 million.