World-first screening program for lifestyle diseases for workers in Victoria

Millions of Victorian workers will have the benefit of a world-first screening program for lifestyle diseases.

The program announced by Victorian Premier John Brumby will cost $218 million for a five year screening of all Victorian workers for diseases such as diabetes and other preventable conditions.

The action is being taken to combat rising obesity, and related chronic diseases, with workers also being tested for high blood pressure, Body Mass Index and other early indicators of so-called lifestyle diseases.

According to a recent report from the Department of Human Services more than 4 million people will be obese or overweight by 2025, an increase of 2.5 million from three years ago.

Along with this increase will come the attendant social and economic costs of obesity-related diseases such as diabetes and heart problems.

The Victorian Health Minister, Daniel Andrews, says it is important the warnings from this research are heeded, he says the government will introduce prevention programs to deal with the problem.

Premier Brumby says money for the program will be generated by the interest earned on investing a $600 WorkSafe surplus and $60 million will be provided to allow health workers to visit regional centers and for small and medium-sized business to assess workers, give diet and activity advice and conduct free screenings.

Another $28 million will be provided to employers with $10 million-plus payrolls in a dollar-for-dollar matching program.

$130 million will be earmarked for prevention programs for workers most at risk, including lifestyle change programs to encourage workers to lose weight, increase their physical activity and improve their diet.

Mr Brumby says 'Work Health' will be the first program in the word to target the connection between chronic disease and workplace injury across an entire work force, will save lives and set a new international standard for workplace health and safety.