Residents are being invited to take the HCF Health Challenge in a region where more than two-thirds reported as overweight or obese.
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A total of 67.2 per cent of Dubbo residents reported as overweight or obese, according to HCF, while one-in-five are reported to have high blood pressure.
The HCF Dubbo branch will host the HCF Health Intelligence Challenge from March 29 until March 31, and is available to members and non-members.
Featuring an interactive series of questions, the challenge aims to empower Australians to take control of their health by encouraging them to improve their health knowledge across three key areas: body, mind and society.
Heart and weight-related risk factors may not be the only areas where Dubbo locals need a knowledge boost, with a survey commissioned by HCF revealing a significant ‘blind spot’ in Australians’ knowledge about health overall, particularly in the areas of nutrition, technology use and sun damage.
- Over half (57 per cent) of Australians incorrectly believe eating 2-3 servings of fruits and vegetables will give you enough vitamins and minerals
- Australians also underestimate the effect of getting drunk, as almost one fifth (19 per cent) mistakenly believe you can sober up faster with black coffee, with those aged 18-34 most confused (27 per cent)
- The impact of sun damage is also not properly considered among young Australians, as almost one quarter (23 per cent) of Aussies aged 18-34 incorrectly believe getting a healthy tan will protect from future UV skin damage
- Australians also don’t understand the effect of screen time, as three quarters (75 per cent) incorrectly believe sitting too close to the TV will damage your eyes
HCF Dubbo branch manager Dale Wykes says the findings and local statistics are an important reminder for the local community to take action on improving their health.
“We’re excited to see local residents stop by to take the HCF Health Intelligence Challenge, to see how their health knowledge measures up,” Ms Wykes said.
“It’s a good opportunity to check in on your understanding of what it means to be healthy, and how to make long-term positive lifestyle changes.”
