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As outlined on the ABC program ‘Landline’, currently over 25,000 farmers and their families have access to Ford Health’s Healthy Farmer program…
Farmers not looking after their Health
19 July 2007
A landmark report into the health of Queensland farmers will be released at the AgForce 2007 State Conference in Goondiwindi.
AgForce president Peter Kenny said the report was the result of the Healthy Farmer pilot program, established by AgForce in conjunction with Ford Health.
“Queensland farmers are great at considering the economic and environmental bottom line and carrying out vital work on their properties,” Mr Kenny said.
“However, they are not nearly so diligent when it comes to looking after their health which is why AgForce and Ford Health have joined forces to give as many of our members as possible access to a comprehensive health check up.”
Mr Kenny said while the Healthy Farmer Program found farmers displayed positive behaviour in terms of their physical activity and diet, Ford Health’s Toby Ford would outline several areas of concern when he appeared via a special video link up today at 9am.
“It seems some of us don’t look after ourselves as well as we should in the circumstances,” Mr Kenny said.
“The report found more than 65% of AgForce members work more than 50 hours a week but don’t make time for activities such as medical screening for the prevention of prostate or cervical cancer, as they might not have access to these facilities as they aren’t as readily available.
“We all say the same thing – we don’t have time to take a holiday, we can’t take a day off just because we have the flu, we don’t need help – and we’re just setting ourselves up for a fall.”
Mr Kenny said despite 47% identifying back and neck pain impacting on their ability to do their everyday work, 30% are not getting enough sleep, 43% reporting high stress levels and 25% recording elevated blood pressure, farmers still put off going to their doctor for help.
“We all make the same excuses about being busy but at the end of the day, who is going to do the work if we end up injured or ill? We need to take care of ourselves now,” he said. “To help AgForce members on the path to a healthier lifestyle, Ford Health will be rolling out the Healthy Farmer Program to all members in 2007-08.”
“Ford Health will allow AgForce members free access to their 12 month education course, a monthly workshop delivered via the web.
“The first two sessions are available now – Secret men’s and Secret Women’s Business – so make sure you and your family don’t miss this opportunity to make sure you have a long, fit and healthy life.”
ENDS
