70% of men overweight or obese compared to 56% of women

DIABETES Queensland is calling on Ipswich residents to lose some kilos to help ease the burden on the health system.

The Australian Health Survey stated 70% of men are overweight or obese compared to 56% of women.

DIABETES Queensland is calling on Ipswich residents to lose some kilos to help ease the burden on the health system.

Diabetes is the number one cause of avoidable hospitalisation in the state - outstripping the flu and asthma.

New research has shown two-thirds of Australians are now overweight or obese; with Diabetes Queensland calling for Ipswich people to sign up for the QT Swap It Don't Stop It campaign.

The findings from the Australian Bureau of Statistics' Australian Health Survey also show 25% of children are overweight or obese.

Diabetes Queensland CEO Michelle Trute said Queenslanders needed to take responsibility for their health.

"Overweight and obese Queenslanders are developing preventable chronic diseases such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and some cancers at a rapid rate - costing our health system billions of dollars each year," she said.

"Almost 90% of all health problems, disabilities and early deaths in Queensland are due to chronic preventable diseases.

"We can all start swapping our way to better health today by creating healthy new habits."

By taking part in the QT Swap It program swappers can download a 12-week planner to assist them on their journey toward better health.

To sign up for the QT's Swap It challenge visit the website at diabetesqld.org.au or register now for the 12 Week Swapper Challenge

FATTY FACTS

• The Australian Health Survey stated 63.4% of people are now obese or overweight.
• The survey showed 70% of men are overweight or obese compared to 56% of women.

Originally published as 70% of men overweight or obese compared to 56% of women