A new app launched today is the latest weapon in the fight against overweight and obesity, with figures showing only 12 per cent of Queensland adults are a healthy weight and lead healthy lifestyles.
The Health & Fitness Age Challenge app was launched by Queensland Health to help residents get healthier and happier – an initiative backed by Cancer Council Queensland.
Figures show two-thirds of Queensland adults are overweight or obese, with only 12 per cent weighing-in within a healthy range.
Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift hoped the new app would motivate Queenslanders to make lasting changes for their personal health.
“Queenslanders use apps for just about everything – banking, reading, listening to music, watching TV, shopping online – even staying SunSmart!” Ms Clift said.
“To help people boost their health and fitness everyday through technology they are already using and loving is a great tool that we hope pays off.
“The obesity epidemic has grown to uncontrollable proportions in Queensland. We have the highest rate of obesity in the country – more needs to be done to help people get healthy.
“Having a poor diet and inactive lifestyle can lead to overweight or obesity, which increases the risk of a range of chronic diseases – including some cancers.
“Getting your health back on track doesn’t necessarily mean overhauling your whole lifestyle – it can be a few small changes to your meals or physical activity habits that can make a big difference.”
Research shows up to one-third of all cancers are preventable through lifestyle changes including eating healthily and maintaining a healthy weight.
Cancer Council Queensland also produces a statewide radio program, Live Well, Be Well radio, available on 96Five in Brisbane each Saturday morning, or via podcast at cancerqld.org.au.
“Our Live Well, Be Well radio show features healthy recipes and fitness tips every week to boost the health of all Queenslanders, and to help keep people on track with their goals,” Ms Clift said.
“Visit our homepage every week for the latest radio show – and share the link with friends and family!”
Queenslanders are invited to join the QUEST to live a healthier life at quest.org.au.
The Health & Fitness Age Challenge app is available for download at healthier.qld.gov.au.
More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available at www.cancerqld.org.au or Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20.
For more information or interviews, please contact:
Katie Clift, Executive Manager, Media and Spokesperson, Cancer Council Queensland
Ph: (07) 3634 5372 or 0409 001 171