We’ve all seen the ad on TV. You know the one where the cartoon character is slouching in his chair and the words ‘Life. Be in it’ flash before your eyes. While the famous advertisement no longer graces our screens on a regular basis, the message of keeping fit and healthy has definitely stayed alive.
 
With statistics naming Australia as the most obese country in the world, one local doctor believes there is no time like the present to kick bad lifestyle habits and replace them with an improved health regime. And according to Dr Fiona Stewart, starting is as easy as getting a few
simple tests and a little advice. Dr Stewart has been practising medicine for many years and has spent the past eight with Bundilla Clinic in Mooloolaba.

Dr Stewart, who has special interests in family health, said heart disease was one of the biggest challenges facing the Australian population. According to statistics from the Heart Foundation, cardiovascular disease accounted for 34% of all deaths in Australia in 2006. In a bid to help combat the problem, Bundilla Clinic is hosting free healthy heart clinics every Tuesday from 8:30am - 5:00pm. Dr Stewart encouraged residents to book their place and take advantage of the community event.

“When it comes to heart disease, the first thing people need to look at is family history, also their smoking and whether they have had their blood pressure and cholesterol checked recently,’’ she said. “If their risk factor is high they need to make sure they are being adequately monitored. “Obesity is also a factor when it comes to cardiovascular issues.’’

Practice Manager of Bundilla Clinic, Kathryn Davis, said the healthy heart checks were initiated to mark World Heart Day.
Celebrated on September 28, World Heart Day encourages people to think about their risk when it comes to cardiovascular disease. Bundilla’s free healthy heart clinic also followed on from National Stroke Week.
 
“We wanted to offer the community something that could really benefit their health,’’ Ms Davis said. “Cardiovascular disease is a heart, stroke and blood vessel disease and shockingly it affects more than 3.5 million Australians. “A few simple tests could determine your risk and possibly save your life.’’

The free heart checks are held between 8.30am and 5pm and residents need to book an appointment as these community clinics are extremely popular. To reserve your spot, phone Kathryn directly on 5444 2666. Bundilla Clinic is located at 130 Brisbane Road, Mooloolaba.

ARE YOU AT RISK?
Risk factors that could increase the chance of coronary heart disease include:
∙smoking
∙lack of exercise
∙family history
∙diabetes
∙high blood pressure and cholesterol

For more information log on to www.heartfoundation.org.au