The latest statistics from the interactive map released by the Australian Health Policy Collaboration, show a serious health report fail in our region.

The most eye-opening statistics clearly show the majority of locals are struggling with the battle of the bulge.

31.6 per cent of all adults, male and female, over 18 years of age in the Mid-Western region are obese. 66.9 per cent are overweight.

A staggering 71.6 per cent of males and 61.7 per cent of females are classified as overweight or obese.

That’s despite our beautiful walkways, many personal training options and health initiatives from council.

The statistics drawn from the Australian Bureau of Statistic only get worse. 

33.5 per cent of adults have high cholesterol, 20.8 per cent smoke and 24.4 per cent have high blood pressure.

Heavy drinking is also a major concern in the region.

The national average is 18.2 per cent of all adults but our region smashed that with 20.1 per cent of residents drinking more than the recommended daily amount.

The local area profiles of health data can be used to inform service planning, commissioning and research.

The profiles can also be used to compare the data from one area against national chronic disease prevention and reduction targets. 

One in two Australians have a chronic disease, the leading cause of illness, disability and death nationally, Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows.

"In 2016, Australia must commit to supporting policies and interventions that reduce chronic disease risk factors and underlying determinants, and significantly scale up existing effective action," the health tracker report said.

This is not the first time the Mid-Western region has had a health wake up call.  

Back in 2013 a report showed the prevention of smoking, obesity and diabetes as key health priorities in the Mid-Western Region. 

But clearly the message is not loud enough in our region or across Australia.

Is it finally time we all start moving more and eating healthier?

The statistics continue to say yes.