That's right, we're fat. The Herald-Sun reports today that we are among the top 20 fattest nations in the world. Estimates state that 70-80% of Australian adults are overweight or obese. We're talking over 5 million people. It just shows that we'd rather sit in front of the TV watching sport with a beer and a pizza than actually do something activity ourselves.
Are you among the 70-80% range? If so, what are you doing about it? What is your health and fitness worth to you?
Here are a few things to think about:
- Obesity-related illness kills approximately 5,600 people across Australia every year (source)
- Obesity increases the risk of developing Type II diabetes
- Diabetes can shorten life expectancy by up to 15 years (source)
- Its annual cost to the nation exceeds $1.2 billion (ibid)
- Obesity increases the risk of heart disease (source)
- Cardio-vascular disesase is "the leading underlying cause of death in Australia, accounting for 48,835 deaths, or 36.9% of all deaths, in 2003" (source)
If that doesn't get you to stand up - pun intended - and take notice, then nothing will. Fitness trainers, sports coaches, doctors and the like can harp on all day about the need for an active lifestyle but in the end it is up to those who are overweight to do something for themselves.
If you are overweight, we strongly encourage you to do what it takes to get yourself back into shape. It's not too late. Your health should be one of your highest priorities.
Post a Comment
Create a Link
<< Home