Mackay named as "Fattest Town" in Australia

Time to get moving!


Article heading image for Mackay named as "Fattest Town" in Australia

 

Cancer Council Queensland CEO Ms Chris McMillan said it was concerning to see rates still rising in some areas and reminded people to put their health first ahead of World Cancer Day (February 4).

“Being obese or overweight can have a detrimental impact on your health and is one of the leading contributors to chronic diseases later in life, including some cancers,” Ms McMillan said.

"Analysis of subregions showed Mackay is the heaviest community in Queensland, with around 83 per cent of adults’ overweight or obese – up from 72 per cent in 2007-2008. Cairns is the healthiest region, with only 51 per cent bulging above average.”

Ms McMillan said up to one third of all cancer cases could be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices, including eating healthy and exercising regularly.

“Increase your intake of fruit and vegetables, and lower your consumption of sugars, processed meats and unhealthy fats to improve your diet,” Ms McMillan said.

“In addition, incorporate more movement into your everyday life – aim for at least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise every day to reduce your cancer risk.”

For more about Cancer Council Queensland and healthy living visit cancerqld.org.au or call 13 11 20.


 
Obese and overweight adults by region as reported in Progress in Australian Regions:

Queensland: 64.3% of adults are overweight or obese

Cairns: 51.5% of adults are overweight or obese

Townsville: 64.6% of adults are overweight or obese (Greater Townsville region is 63.4%)

Mackay: 83.4% of adults are overweight or obese

Fitzroy: 73.1% of adults are overweight or obese

Wide Bay: 70.1% of adults are overweight or obese

Sunshine Coast: 60.3% of adults are overweight or obese

Darling Downs: 59% of adults are overweight or obese

Toowoomba: 63.3% of adults are overweight or obese (Greater Toowoomba region is 60.5%)

Greater Brisbane: 62.9% of adults are overweight or obese

Gold Coast: 61.6% of adults are overweight or obese

*Yearbook 2017, Progress in Australian Regions, Australian Government, Department of Infrastructure, Regional Development, and Cities.

29 January 2018




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