As a region, we’re consistently amongst the worst in the state for obesity, and as a result at greater risk of developing diabetes, heart disease or other lifestyle-related diseases. 

So it’s heartening that the combined efforts of  the Gulgong, Mudgee and Rylstone Health Services, with the support of Mid-Western Regional Council and the Mid-Western Health Community Alliance, are having some results. 

The Living Well Together award presented by the Western NSW Local Health District recognises the success of efforts to convince residents to be more active and eat a healthier diet. 

The fact that 1000 people have taken part in activities shows that the program is making a difference.    

However, a Cancer Council survey which indicates that many people are still unaware that obesity is a risk factor for common cancers shows that there is more work to be done. 

The Cancer Council has launched its own program, Eat It To Beat It, to encourage people to reduce their risk of cancer by eating more fruit and vegetables.  It’s calling for volunteers to help run the program and for all schools in the region to sign up. 

These are just a couple of the programs which are available to help local people adopt a healthier lifestyle (the Baby Boomers Sport a Month Club is another). 

Hopefully, by helping the community to make better informed choices about food and activity, they will ensure that the Mid-Western Region no longer claims its unwanted place among ranks of “regions at risk”.