Cancer Council has called for South West Queenslanders to get moving, with figures showing rates of physical activity in some areas are as much as 25 per cent lower than the Queensland average.
According to Queensland Health data, the adult rate of participation in sufficient activity for health benefit was 25 per cent lower in Somerset, 17 per cent lower in Southern Downs and 14 per cent lower in Lockyer Valley, when compared to the state average.
Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift said the finding was a concern.
“Evidence shows that physical activity is one of the keys to avoiding preventable cancer,” Ms Clift said.
“It’s vital that all Queenslanders get active and exercise daily for their short and long term health.
“We know that up to one third of all cancers are preventable through healthy diet and lifestyle.
“This means that simply by getting active, we can save many lives and prevent cancer-related deaths in South West Queensland.”
National physical activity guidelines recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on most, but preferably, all days of the week.
“People who are time poor can do two 15 minute sessions, or even three 10 minute sessions – ensuring each activity session should last for a minimum for 10 minutes,” Ms Clift said.
“Moderate physical activity includes any activity in which you can still hold a conversation, such as brisk walking.
“Vigorous physical activity includes any activity that makes you ‘huff and puff’, such as fast swimming, cycling and jogging.
“As your fitness improves, aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate-intensity activity or 30 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity every day.”
In Somerset, around 41 per cent of the adult population engaged in sufficient physical activity for their health, with rates as low as 31 per cent for adults aged over 55.
In Southern Downs, around 48 per cent of the adult population engaged in sufficient physical activity for their health, with rates as low as 44 per cent for females aged over 18.
In Lockyer Valley, around 47 per cent of the adult population engaged in sufficient physical activity for their health, with rates as low as 33 per cent for adults aged over 55.
Schools, businesses and community groups interested in finding out more about how to get physically active to reduce cancer risks should visit CCQ’s quest.org.au – an online program designed to help Queenslanders make the healthy choice the easy choice.
More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available via Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20 or cancerqld.org.au.
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