Cancer Council warns of battle of the bulge
OFFICIALLY, Sunny Coasters are still fat.
But the good news is we have been slimming down over a four year period.
A national report showed the rate of adult overweight and obesity on the Sunshine Coast dropped over a four year period, but still remained alarmingly high.
Progress in Australian Regions, published last month, revealed more than 59% of Sunshine Coast adults weighed in as overweight or obese in 2011/12.
This compared to around 65% in 2007/08.
Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift said the figures highlighted a lack of sufficient exercise for many Sunshine Coast locals.
"The new stats show only about 50% of Sunshine Coast adults meet the recommended physical activity guidelines," Ms Clift said.
"This is a significant decline on 57% of local adults meeting the exercise guidelines in 2007/08 - more locals urgently need to get moving for their overall health.
"The overall trend of rising rates of overweight and obesity is a concern for the local region, putting lives at risk.
"Having a poor diet and being physically inactive can increase the risk of a range of chronic disease, including certain cancers.
"We're calling on all Sunshine Coast locals to get a fresh start in 2016 - get inspired to live your best year yet by improving your lifestyle to feel your happiest and healthiest."
Up to one third of all cancers diagnosed on the Sunshine Coast can be prevented through simple lifestyle choices including maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet and being physically active.
"Get the family involved in a healthy shop, get together to organise a weekly meal plan that follows the Australian Dietary Guidelines," Ms Clift said.
"Think about incorporating more movement into your everyday life too. Hit the gym with a friend, walk the block with your dog or catch public transport and walk part of the way to your destination.
"Start at 30 minutes of moderate intensity activities everyday - walking, housework or even gardening - and aim for 60 minutes of exercise a day to further reduce your cancer risk.
"Huff and puff and halve your time too! If your fitness allows, step it up to cycling, jogging or swimming for 30 minutes of vigorous intensity activity every day."