Obesity, a growing national concern

by Adriel Chan

May 17, 2006

With The Heart Foundation determining that obese Western Australians can fill Subiaco Oval to a capacity of 17 times, it is time for Australians to be worried.

When fat is deposited in the body and the energy consumed from food or drink is greater than the energy used in activities and rest, this would result in a person becoming overweight and obese.

Director of Cardiovascular Health, Trevor Shilton said: “Overweight and obesity will be the major driver for increase in heart disease and diabetes and will consume millions of dollars in health resources.”

In a recent research conducted by Heart Foundation, it was estimated that 7,000 Australians have died from heart disease, stroke and other diseases of the blood vessels (cardiovascular disease) each year as a result of overweight and obesity.

The alarming figure of obese Australians adults has increased by 29 per cent and children aged 7 to 15 years have doubled since 1985.

The Heart Foundation says that by increasing levels of physical activity and reducing time in inactive activity such as watching television and playing computer games, could lead to a better lifestyle.

“It’s never too late to start being physically active and research has shown that people who enjoys regular, moderate physical activity reduce their risk of heart disease by 50 per cent,” said Mr Shilton.

He believes it is not at all difficult to make a difference to achieve a healthy lifestyle and Australians should make an effort to improve their health and well being.

Besides engaging in physical activities, the Heart Foundation says a healthy diet is also necessary in maintaining a healthy weight.

The Walk of Life campaign which involves educating the public about healthy eating and walking was an integral part of the Heart Foundation’s Healthy Weight Action Plan. This was implemented during Heart Week from 30 April to 6 May.