A national conference in Darwin this week will address the importance of focusing on preventative measures in dealing with the rising incidence of chronic disease. Chronic diseases include cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, chronic airways disease and chronic kidney disease.
The 13th Annual Chronic Diseases Network Conference on 10-11 September 2009 will see health professionals from across Australia working together on the theme 'Prevention is the Best Medicine'.
"It has been estimated that 70 per cent of the difference in life expectancy between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians can be attributed to chronic diseases. Chronic diseases also represent a massive economic burden on communities and health systems," said Dr Christine Connors, Director of the Preventable Chronic Disease program, NT Department of Health and Families.
Chronic disease also accounts for 70 per cent of the total disease burden in Australia due to death, disability and reduced quality of life.
The conference program features nationally and internationally recognised speakers and will examine ways to address the role of governments, business, industry, and non-government organizations in improving health, reducing premature death and avoidable suffering and increasing productivity.
"This year's conference theme is timely given the current strategic and policy directions of the NT Government and recent national initiatives such as the release of the National Preventative Health Strategy," added Dr Connors.
The 13th Annual Chronic Diseases Network Conference website is at www.cdnconference2009.com
Release date: 9 September