New report highlights the impact of obesity on Western Australian health system

A recently released report, The Burden and Cost of Excess Body Mass in Western Australian Adults and Children, provides an in-depth look at the growing cost of overweight and obesity to the WA health system.

In 2016, health conditions attributable to excess body mass were responsible for 9.3% of all hospitalisations in Western Australia, costing the health system close to $340 million.

The report projects that unless we can stem the problem, by 2026 hospitalisations due to excess body mass will have risen by 54% - and the costs to the WA health system by 80%, to $610 million.

The Western Australia Government's Live Lighter campaign encourages and supports people to eat well, be physically active and to maintain a healthy weight.

WA Health Minister Roger Cook notes "obesity not only impacts our hospitals but it also has serious flow-on impacts to our community and takes a personal toll on individuals and their loved ones.

"This report shows us that even the smallest improvements can play a significant role in turning this situation around.

"In the past few months, we've seen more Western Australians out cycling and walking, and a renewed interest in preparing healthy food at home. This could be a great opportunity to kickstart good habits that help us maintain a healthier weight."  

KEY FINDINGS

Excess body mass was responsible for 8.1% of all deaths in WA

Males were more likely to die prematurely due to excess body mass

Almost 64% of deaths attributable to excess body mass were due to ischaemic heart disease (30%), Alzheimer's disease (13%), diabetes mellitus (11%) and chronic kidney disease due to certain causes (10%).

The homegrown campaign has now been adopted in most Australian States and Territories, and has been recognised internationally as an exemplar for public health campaigns.

Click here to access the report.