The prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCD’s) such as diabetes and coronary artery disease is increasing both globally and in Australia. The prevalence of diabetes in Australia has increased by approximately 200% in the past 20 years, and cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in Australians. Physical inactivity is one of the main risk factors for non-communicable diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. If all inactive Australians became physically active, 10% of deaths (all-cause mortality) could be prevented. Similarly, deaths due to coronary heart disease and Type II diabetes would decrease by 6% and 8%, respectively, if inactive Australians became physically active.
Prevention of life style and work related diseases include implementation of physical activity (PA) and the worksite has been identified as an appropriate setting for health promotion. To date, several initiatives have been taken by employers to promote a healthy lifestyle including the promotion of physical activity. More recently, workplaces have implemented various initiatives to reduce sitting and promote moving in the workplace.
This talk will include the recently updated physical activity guidelines. Evidence-based practice of various workplace and community based health promotion programs that aim to promote physical activity will be discussed. In addition, practical guidelines and recommendations to encourage working adults to move more and sit less will be presented.