TWO local programs that want to transform Logan from a diabetes hotspot into a nation-leading prevention and early-intervention haven say they are finding success.
Diabetes is the fastest growing chronic condition in Australia and one of the leading causes of premature death. In Logan, that burden is heavier than most, with the condition responsible for more than 30% of all potentially preventable hospitalisations in the city, according to Health and Wellbeing Queensland (HWQld).
Nationwide, the diabetes rate is 5.6%. In Logan, it’s 8.4%.
Those behind the push to change the statistics say their efforts are working, keeping people healthy and out of hospital.
The Logan Healthy Living program – a 12-month initiative run by UQ Health Care in partnership with HWQld – has helped more than 800 local residents better manage or reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes since 2021.
In four years, the program has seen a 10% decrease in hospital admissions and a 30% reduction in emergency presentations, according to HWQld Chief Executive Robyn Littlewood.
It provides locals access to exercise physiology, physiotherapy, dietetics, diabetes education, psychology and social work, all located locally and at no cost. The goal: to change lifestyles.
Dr Littlewood said the program was demonstrating what targeted prevention could achieve.
“The program has helped hundreds of participants achieve measurable health improvements. Those results show how prevention and partnership can change lives and reduce the pressure on our public health system.”
For Logan grandmother Maureen Trainor, 75, the impact has been profound.
“I’ve lost 75kg in recent years, but I wanted to be fitter and healthier,” she said.
“I’ve got six grandchildren and I want to be around for them. Type 2 diabetes is hereditary in my family, so I knew I was on track for a diagnosis if I didn’t get my health in check.
“The program and people have been amazing, giving me access to a clinical therapist, dietitian, social services and physiotherapist – all at no-cost. It really has given me the tools to change my life through diet, exercise, education and ongoing support. I’ve also made great friends and felt so welcomed.”
Another initiative, My Health For Life, is run across the state but has found some of its greatest success in Logan, according to organiser Diabetes Australia and HWQld. Since 2021, more than 57,000 Queenslanders have completed health risk assessments through the program, with more than 12,000 high-risk people going on to receive free personalised health coaching online, over the phone or face-to-face.
UQ Health Care CEO Wallis Westbrook said Logan Healthy Living was one of the most significant lifestyle-focused diabetes initiatives in the country.
“So far, we’ve seen over 800 people through the program and have countless stories of the real impact it is having on participants’ health and overall wellbeing,” he said.
