News
13 May, 2024
Free Heart Health and Diabetes Checks at NRL Magic Round
Queenslanders are being urged to take a few minutes during the upcoming NRL Magic Round to access free heart health and diabetes checks, with the Miles Government partnering with SiSU Health and Pathology Queensland to offer the service.
Queenslanders are being urged to take a few minutes during the upcoming NRL Magic Round to access free heart health and diabetes checks, with the Miles Government partnering with SiSU Health and Pathology Queensland to offer the service.
Building on the success of similar initiatives at Melbourne’s Boxing Day Test and Adelaide’s Gather Round, the program aims to provide Queenslanders with an easy and convenient way to assess their health. In previous events, more than 7,000 Victorians and 8,000 South Australians participated, with alarming findings: over half of those who had their blood pressure checked hadn’t done so in the past year, and 85% of people with high blood glucose were unaware of their condition before the check.
Cardiovascular disease remains Australia’s leading cause of death, and Type 2 Diabetes significantly increases the risk of heart issues. However, many heart attacks and strokes are preventable by understanding key health indicators and making lifestyle adjustments. Nearly 1 in 4 Australian adults have high blood pressure, but many are unaware of their risk.
To make these important health checks more accessible, 11 SiSU Health Stations and four blood glucose check desks will be available during Magic Round. These stations will offer free, quick checks that assess weight, body mass index, blood pressure, heart rate, and more. Results will be delivered in real-time through the SiSU Health app, and participants are encouraged to follow up with their GP or pharmacist for further discussion.
The initiative aims to raise awareness of heart health, especially after the recent passing of rugby star Terry Hills, who tragically died of a suspected heart attack at the age of 52. The free health checks present a great opportunity for fans to start conversations about health and take action towards a healthier future.
