Shire tops cancer table

By Tania Martin
MEN in the Shire of Yarra Ranges face the highest risk of cancer in Victoria, according to a State Government health status survey released last week.
The survey outlines that both men and women living in the shire also face the highest risk in the state for contracting diabetes.
The rate for female cardiovascular disease in the shire is also above the state average.
Health Minister Bronwyn Pike said the study was the most accurate snapshot of the impact of disease and ill health in the Victorian community.
Ms Pike said in most areas the cancer rate is lower than the state average but the Shire of Yarra Ranges has the highest male cancer rates.
Meanwhile, she said the nearby shires of Boroondara and Manningham have the highest cancer rates in women.
Ms Pike said that all municipalities in this region have male cardiovascular disease rates below the state average but in Yarra Ranges, female rates are higher than average.
She said Yarra Ranges has also been recorded as having the highest diabetes rate in both men and women.
Ms Pike said this was only the second health status survey after the Government first looked at the State’s burden of disease in 1996.
“The report shows that cancer, cardiovascular and mental disorders are the three leading contributing factors in death and illness in the eastern suburbs,” she said.
Ms Pike said the study also provides details of important risk factors, such as tobacco and alcohol use, physical inactivity, obesity, illicit drugs, and poor diet which can explain the burden of disease in nine regional areas.
She said the results of the report reinforce the reasons why the government has committed an unprecedented $87 million in the 2006-07 budget to combat obesity.
The funding also includes $28.4 million to promote a healthy and active lifestyle through the successful Go for Your Life program.
Ms Pike said the report has shown that a reduction in smoking throughout the region, especially in men, has led to health improvements.
She said residents had also taken action to have their blood pressure and cholesterol levels tested and are taking preventative medication.
“Screening has also resulted in the early diagnosis and treatment of breast, prostate and bowel cancers and generally give the sufferers better outcomes.
Ms Pike said the detailed information in the study would be useful in planning and evaluating health services for local communities.