Heart health funding would help more get moving

The Heart Foundation is calling for $1.2 million to tackle Victoria’s poor exercise scorecard in regional heart hotspots as well as in Melbourne’s outer growth areas.

The heart health charity has urged the Victorian Government for its support to expand the Heart Foundation’s Walking Program in priority areas to help save more lives and avoid hospital admissions.

Heart Foundation Heart Maps data reveal alarming inequities exist, with higher rates of physical inactivity, coronary heart disease deaths and hospitalisations found in lower socio-economic areas across the state.

Kellie-Ann Jolly, chief executive officer of the Heart Foundation in Victoria, said where people live should not disadvantage their heart health, and investing in walking would pay dividends through saving lives and cutting healthcare costs for heart disease, Victoria’s single leading cause of death.

“We know some of the state’s heart hotspots lack enough Heart Foundation walking groups to serve the whole community. With more support, we can expand our free walking groups and recruit volunteers in priority regions like Melbourne’s north west or Shepparton to help drive down risk factors for heart disease, save more lives and keep families together.

“COVID-19 continues to stress-test our healthcare system so investing in prevention activities, like walking, is critical if we are to help people stay fitter for longer and out of hospital.”

According to the Heart Maps, the City of Greater Geelong has prevalence of smoking and obesity that are both significantly above the national average.

More than 4,800 Victorians die and 36,000 are hospitalised each year from coronary heart disease. The healthcare benefits are enormous – studies have found that for every dollar invested in walking, it returns $13.

“At least 30 minutes of brisk walking most days is enough to help people reduce their risks of heart disease by 30 to 40 per cent,” Ms Jolly said.

“Being regularly active is a heart muscle workout that helps manage weight, reduces stress and boosts mood. As well, it helps manage clinical risks for heart disease, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.”

Since the Heart Foundation launched its Personal Walking Plans (PWPs) in March 2021, more than 25,700 Victorians have used the plans to kickstart their exercise routines and stay motivated during the pandemic.

A recent survey of PWP participants found only 20 per cent did the recommended 30 minutes of exercise on most days. After completing the program, this doubled to 48 per cent. Overall, 92 per cent of participants noticed an improvement in their health.

“Whether using our Personal Walking Plans to set fitness goals or joining a Heart Foundation walking group to find a walking buddy, we know people who are less active need extra support to stay motivated and on track,” Ms Jolly said.

“We’re pleased that 92 per cent of people who join Heart Foundation walking groups remain in the program six months later.

“And an added benefit for business – people often spend locally on a quick coffee or last minute groceries when they leave their cars behind to walk neighourhoods with friends, family or pets.”

To find a walking group in the Geelong region or sign up to a free PWP, head to the Heart Foundation’s website.