News Release                   For Immediate Release

December 9, 2003

Many in Grey-Bruce at risk of developing heart disease and stroke

Owen Sound -- Medical Officer of Health Dr. Hazel Lynn released new data today, which revealed many Grey-Bruce residents are at risk of developing heart disease and stroke.

“If you’re one of the 54% of Grey-Bruce residents who aren’t physically active, or one of the 57% who are either overweight or obese, your way of life may prove to be dangerous to your health.  In fact, only 2 in 10 of us are getting enough physical activity to benefit our heart,” she said.

Circulatory disease (heart disease and stroke) is the leading cause of death here, accounting for 4 in 10 deaths. While death rates for the disease have declined in Ontario, the decrease in Grey and Bruce Counties has been smaller and not as significant.  The death rate is significantly higher in Bruce County compared to Ontario.

New data from the Canadian Community Health Survey (2000/2001) shows that compared to the Ontario average, Grey-Bruce residents:

·        are more overweight

·        are more inactive

·        consume slightly less fruits and vegetables per day

·        and drink more alcohol.

There are about the same proportion of smokers in Grey-Bruce compared to Ontario.

There are factors that can reduce the risk of developing heart disease or stroke.  These “modifiable” risk factors include obesity, inactivity, smoking, high blood pressure, adult onset diabetes, high cholesterol and poorly managed stress.

Lucy Gowers, Area Manager of the Heart & Stroke Foundation, stated concerns that inactivity and poor diet could have grave impact on the health of local children. Based on results from the Heart & Stroke Foundation’s Annual Report Card of 2002, she reported that the current lifestyles of kids aged 9 to 12 could put them in the fast lane for developing heart disease and stroke as early as their 30s.

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According to Dr. Lynn, “The challenges of turning this around is a community responsibility.  This problem needs to be addressed in communities, workplaces, homes and schools across Grey-Bruce.  It is much broader than a health problem – it is a social issue that we all need to work on.”

Mary Anne Alton of the Bluewater District School Board discussed a new research project supported by the school board, the health unit and McMaster University addressing child growth and nutrition.  Alton also discussed a recently formed Prevention of Obesity workgroup that is looking at the issues of physical inactivity and unhealthy eating for local families and young children.

As part of the announcement, Dr. Lynn launched a new awareness campaign targetting one of the modifiable risk factors of circulatory disease — a sedentary lifestyle. 

“There are 1440 minutes in a day and if you can get physically active for 30 of them, you can reduce your risk of heart disease.  Physical activity can strengthen your heart and

you can also expect to achieve a healthier weight,” she said.

“As much as 40% to 60% of deaths may be prevented by reducing the percentage of people with more than one risk factor. Even for those with a family history of heart disease, moderate to high levels of physical activity appear to protect against developing heart disease,” said Dr. Lynn. 

• Heart Health Status Report - 2003
• "Get Active for 30!" Poster - Girl
• "Get Active for 30!" Poster - Man

For further information call Public Health at 376-9420 or visit our web site at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.

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For more information, please contact:

Dr. Hazel Lynn, Medical Officer of Health

Grey Bruce Health Unit

(519) 376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456

Or

Linda Davies, Manager, Prevention of Chronic Diseases and Injuries

Grey Bruce Health Unit

(519) 376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456