The first Australian chapter of Cities Changing Diabetes launched in December with a host of grassroots activities and partnerships in Sydney. The Sydney partnership is initially focused on supporting two populations at high risk of diabetes and obesity, Western Sydney and Indigenous populations. The partnership includes Western Sydney Diabetes (WSD), Workers Lifestyle Group (WLG) and Indigenous not-for-profit, ‘Uncle Jimmy’s Thumbs Up!’.
“We’re extremely proud to partner with respected organisations that
work daily to address the causes and escalating impacts of diabetes in
Western Sydney and Indigenous residents,” says Mark Scott, Australian
public affairs manager at Novo Nordisk.
At least 13% of
the Western Sydney population has diabetes, with almost as many again
estimated to be undiagnosed or have risk factors. Blacktown Workers
Club will host a diabetes detection pilot run by WSD offering free
HbA1C testing and will install SiSu Health Stations enabling members
to track weight, BMI, blood pressure and more. The stations will
provide lifestyle advice, health improvement tools and support to
engage with healthcare professionals, while data will provide
localised insights.
Cities Changing Diabetes Sydney is
also sponsoring a roll-out of The Good Tucker App. The App enables
shoppers to identify healthy foods and drinks. The roll-out will
involve extensive digital and community engagement activities to
maximise app uptake.
This is an extensive array of launch
activities. Welcome onboard, Sydney!