Official launch of Busselton health study [Audio]

20/11/98

Premier Richard Court has outlined the benefits of Western Australia's involvement in the nation's longest-running health study - highlighting the potential savings to the State's health care system.

Today Mr Court officially launched 'The Busselton Study: Mapping Population Health', which began in 1966 under the supervision of Busselton GP Dr Kevin Cullen, and has seen the most comprehensive collation of health data relating to a single community in Australia.

"The Busselton Study will provide an invaluable tool to doctors and health professionals here in Australia and across the world - seeking to implement effective preventative health strategies for the benefit of people in the community," the Premier said.

The 30-year study (1966 -1996) compiled data which has provided an insight into cardiovascular disease, diabetes and respiratory illness and includes findings in relation to a range of conditions including obesity, peptic ulcer, sleep apnoea and immunological disorders.

As part of the study, the majority of Busselton residents have regularly participated in ongoing health surveys. In the first six years of the study there were record population response rates of 89 to 91 per cent.

"The ongoing support and participation of thousands of members of the Busselton community has contributed to the overall success of the work undertaken," Mr Court said.

As part of the study, health interventions including programs for high blood pressure, smoking, high blood cholesterol levels and obesity, were implemented in Busselton and as a result of lifestyle modifications there has been a significant improvement in the health of the community.

Mr Court said although it was difficult to calculate, there was no doubt that the findings of the study would realise significant savings for health care systems in WA and other jurisdictions.

"With a better understanding of the diseases and illnesses which inflict our communities, more effective prevention strategies can be introduced to improve the general health of people in our community," the Premier said.

"The study data will also assist with the development of guidelines for the early detection of diseases such as heart disease and asthma.

"Strategies leading to the early detection of disease and preventative medicine are both a positive means of addressing the growing burden on our health care system. Currently the Health Budget represents the biggest area of annual spending for the State Government."

Since 1992-93 the Coalition Government has increased health spending by more than 36 per cent or $462.8 million.

Mr Court said that in areas such as child health, it was accepted that research and subsequent improvements in the rate of disease in children had financial benefits for the broader community.

"In WA, it is estimated that for every one per cent improvement in child health there is an annual cost saving of more than $1 million," he said.

"It is envisaged that the savings would be much higher for increases in the general health of the State population."

Mr Court acknowledged the important role played by the study authors - Professor Timothy Wellborn (editor-in-chief);Dr Alan James; Associate Professor Matthew Knuiman; Dr John Beilby; Dr Digby Cullen and Dr Michael Peterkin.

Media contact: Bronwyn Hillman 9222 9475