BLAIR has been revealed as the most at-risk health electorate in Queensland following a report released last week.
The new data revealed in a major national health report from Wesfarmers Health said the electorate had a worrying index score of 46, compared to the national index score of 92.
West Moreton Health chief executive Hannah Bloch said that the region faced many health challenges, compounded by socio-economic disadvantage and higher-than-average rates of chronic disease.
Within the Ipswich region, 34.4% of residents were diagnosed with at least one long-term health condition compared to the South East Queensland average of 32.6%.
The major differences in the long-term health conditions between the Ipswich region and South East Queensland are a larger percentage with mental health condition (11.8% compared to 9.7%), asthma (10.6% compared to 8.6%) and diabetes (5.1% compared to 4.2%).
“West Moreton Health is committed to helping members of the local community live long, healthy lives,” Ms Bloch said.
“This is articulated in the West Moreton Health Strategic Plan, with our vision to have a thriving West Moreton community in which people achieve their best possible health and wellbeing.
“Reducing rates of chronic disease is a complex community issue and we work closely with multiple agencies and partners – including GPs, other healthcare providers, and all levels of government – to improve the health and wellbeing of our community.”
Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann said the health issues of the region were serious, however the government continued to work hard to address them.
“Legislation introduced by the Albanese Labor Government on vaping is a key area we have been focussing on,” Mr Neumann said.
“Australia’s vaping laws are strong and world leading – we are the only country in the world to restrict vapes entirely to pharmacies.
“The government is committed to the National Obesity Strategy which is a 10-year framework to prevent, reduce and treat overweight and obesity in Australia.
“The government provided $3.2 million in additional funding in the 2023-24 Budget for the Australian Branded Food Database, Healthy Food Partnership and contribute to the ongoing implementation of the Health Star Rating system.
“The Government will continue to work hard to address these health issues.”
