WYNDHAM residents are among the healthiest in the western suburbs, a new report has revealed.
The Better Health Plan for the West report outlines problems facing those living in Melbourne’s west and suggests ways to tackle different diseases.
The plan is the result of collaboration between Western Health, LeadWest, and Hume, Brimbank, Melton, Hobsons Bay, Wyndham, Maribyrnong, Moonee Valley and Moorabool councils.
It identifies asthma, mental health, cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes and cancer as the main health problems facing western suburbs residents.
Between 2001 and 2011, Wyndham was found to have the lowest rates of cardiovascular disease and mental health problems in the west.
The city’s residents were also less likely to suffer from cancer and diabetes than other people living in the west.
However, Wyndham had one of the highest rates of obesity, with 23.9 per cent of men and 18.9 per cent of women considered obese.
Its residents also rated above the state average in instances of cancer. One of the main goals of the plan is to educate people, using workshops to promote better understanding and management of health issues.
Regional health literacy groups will be established under the guidance of support service HealthWest.
A western diversity advisory committee will lobby for state and federal funding for allied health professionals and the adoption of a national e-health strategy.
Werribee GP Joe Garra called on governments to use the plan to boost funding for health services, especially for mental health and cardiovascular disease, in Wyndham.
“Mental health and cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity are problems in Wyndham,” Dr Garra said.
“We might not have as many cases as other areas but our services don’t match up. We know what we would like to do out here to tackle the problems so hopefully this will draw attention to the need for more funding.”
