The health of Queenslanders is at high risk, with about 30 per cent of Queensland adults eating unhealthy takeaway every week, and 12 per cent consuming sugar-sweetened drinks each day.
Queensland’s chronic overconsumption of unhealthy food and drink has been reported in the findings from Queensland Health’s latest Self-Reported Health Status Survey.
Cancer Council Queensland has warned our unhealthy habits will increase the incidence of chronic diseases, including cancer.
Spokesperson Katie Clift said Queenslanders needed to cut down on the consumption of products high in sugar, salt, and saturated fat.
“Eating unhealthy takeaway every week and drinking soft drinks each day can have severe consequences on short and long-term health,” Ms Clift said.
“Just one 375ml soft drink contains up to 10 teaspoons of sugar, and many Queenslanders think it’s acceptable to drink a can a day – not realising the damage they are doing.
“Sugary drinks should never be part of a daily diet, and unhealthy takeaway shouldn’t be on the menu every week.
“It’s not just soft drinks that are a concern either – energy drinks, fruit drinks, cordial and sports drinks contain large amounts of ‘hidden’ sugar.
“The consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages is associated with serious health issues such as weight gain and obesity – which can lead to some cancers, type 2 diabetes and heart problems.
“Likewise, weekly intake of takeaway foods high in saturated fat and salt will cause a range of health problems.
“While obesity can be caused by a complex range of factors, we know that eating a healthy diet and limiting sugary, fatty and salty food and drinks is an important aspect of maintaining a healthy weight.”
The data shows nearly half of all Queenslanders aged 18-24 ordered takeaway at least weekly, with males overall 34 per cent more likely than females to do so.
Around 20 per cent of 25-34 year olds consumed a soft, sport or energy drink daily, with men 91 per cent more likely to do so than women.
Cancer Council Queensland recommends Queenslanders limit their consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, and instead drink water or unflavoured low-fat milk.
At least one-third of all cancers are preventable through lifestyle adjustments including eating a healthy diet, being physically active, reducing alcohol intake and maintaining a healthy weight.
More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available via 13 11 20 or www.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