Peterborough health chief urges people to take 'miracle cure' amid fitness campaign
Latest figures show people in the city are living shorter lives than elsewhere in the region
A local health chief is telling us to take what she's described as a "miracle cure" in a bid to lead healthier lives.
A year-long drive to get Peterborough moving has been launched after new figures show people in the city are living shorter and less healthy lives than elsewhere in the region.
The “Spring into Action: The race to get Peterborough moving” campaign is being rolled out by the city council, with the aim of encouraging more people to take up regular exercise.
“Physical activity, if it was a drug, would be considered a miracle cure because it’s the most effective, fun and low-cost way to improve our health," Raj Lakshman, acting director of public health at Peterborough City Council, said.
"Some people think you need an expensive gym membership, but that’s not necessary. Walking outdoors, using nature reserves and joining free classes or park runs all count.”
Life expectancy below average
Regional health experts and policymakers have given the project their backing after hearing that life expectancy in Peterborough is lower than the regional average.
The latest figures show men in Peterborough can expect to live to nearly 78 and for women, just under 82, both below the averages for the East of England and England overall.
But when it comes to healthy life expectancy - the years lived in good health - the gap is even bigger, with city residents living around five to six fewer healthy years than those in other parts of the country.
“We’d like to see that curve out," Ms Lakshman said.
"Physical activity can help reduce the risk of six major conditions that cause illness and early death, like cancers, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and mental ill health.
"Now is the perfect time for people to rethink their fitness goals and take advantage of the opportunities Peterborough has to offer.”
The council’s new campaign aims to promote simple, sustainable habits, like 10 minutes of activity a day, as well as new investment in sports facilities and swimming pools as ways to make it easier to get moving.
The drive also highlights the wide range of clubs, venues and outdoor spaces on offer across Peterborough.
A long-term charter aimed at tackling high obesity rates in Peterborough has also been discussed by the city council.