NT in Australia’s top 10 for ‘alarming’ reasons

The Northern Territory has claimed three top ten Australian rankings but they are not to be celebrated, instead Stroke Foundation is urging the community to work together to change them.

Recent Deloitte research has revealed the Northern Territory is ranked number one in Australia for physical inactivity and daily smoking and is ranked third in Australia for the number of people who are overweight or obese.

Smoking, physical inactivity and obesity are among the key factors that can lead to high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes which are all modifiable risk factors of stroke.

According to No Postcode Untouched data, 36,876 people living in the Northern Territory are physically inactive on a weekly basis. This equates to 19 per cent of the Northern Territory’s population.

The data also shows that 36,582 people, approximately 19 per cent of Northern Territory residents, smoke daily. This is concerning because it is estimated that smoking is attributable to 11% of the total burden of stroke and increases the likelihood of dying as a result of stroke.

In addition to this, a staggering 122,169 Northern Territory residents, 63 per cent of the population, are obese or overweight.

Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Sharon McGowan says these statistics need to change.

“These figures are alarming and show that Northern Territory residents are at great risk of stroke. We know that smoking, obesity, and inactivity can lead to high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes which are all risk factors of stroke so changes need to be made to reduce the risk.”

Mc McGowan is urging the community to work together to create widespread change.

“ 80 per cent of strokes are preventable so the good news is residents can make lifestyle changes today to greatly reduce their risk of stroke. These changes include increasing physical activity, eating a healthy and well-balanced diet and taking steps to quit smoking.”
Ms McGowan is encouraging Northern Territory residents to get involved in Stroke Foundation’s Stride4Stroke fundraiser which is taking place in November.

“ Stride4Stroke is a fun way to get active. I encourage everyone to gather their friends and family and set the challenge this November to get moving and create healthy habits. Exercising regularly is an effective way to reduce your risk of stroke so why not make it a community effort.”

“ Not only does Stride4Stroke encourage being active, it’s also raising vital funds. Every dollar will help prevent stroke, save lives and enhance recovery.” Ms McGowan says.

To register for Stride4Stroke visit the website.