Prime Minister Turnbull supports Walk to Work Day on October 7

THE Prime Minister of Australia, Malcolm Turnbull, is encouraging all Australians to take part in Diabetes Australia Walk to Work Day on October 7, as outlined in a letter of support received this week.

The Prime Minister noted that as diabetes is one of the most serious health challenges facing our country, there are “no more excuses” in taking steps to improve our health and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, or to help manage the condition.

Diabetes Australia CEO, A/Professor Greg Johnson said there was extensive evidence highlighting the effectiveness of physical activity in reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

“Researchers have found that people with largely sedentary lifestyles are 30-50 percent more likely to develop type 2 diabetes compared with people who are moderately physically active every day,” he said.

“A daily dose of physical activity, such as walking to work, is a good way to reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.”

Walking regularly is the simplest and most practical way of increasing your daily exercise, and starting on the path to a healthier lifestyle.

A small change can make an enormous impact — just by getting off the bus, train, or tram a few stops earlier, or walking to your first appointment of the day instead of taking a taxi, you can make a real difference.

The Prime Minister paid tribute to Diabetes Australia for promoting ways of prevention, and encouraged all Australians to take part in Walk to Work Day and to make it just the first step in a lifelong journey to better wellbeing.

www.walk.com.au

ENDS