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Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Wellness Minister Says It's Time To Get Off The Couch

The Alward Government wants a new health care plan that's more reflective of today's financial realities.

A health care forum will be held at the Delta tonight from 6 to 9 hosted by Provincial Health Minister Madelaine Dube who's in town to hear what you have to say. 

63 per cent of adults and 24 per cent of children and teens in the province are overweight or obese. Wellness Minister Trevor Holder says that has to change with steps taken to prevent people from getting sick through bad diet and a lack of exercise. 

He points to studies showing for every dollar spent on preventative care, you can save 12 dollars in health care costs. He also argues thirty minutes of physical activity a day, which could consist of a brisk walk, can reduce your chances of getting Type 2 diabetes by 60 per cent.

Another core issue facing the province is the aging population and greater demand for health care services.