Concerning results have emerged from the Shane Warne Legacy heart check program that ran across the Gilmore region over a four-week period.

Some 83 per cent of participants who completed a full heart health check are reported to present with at least one cardiovascular disease risk factor. 

Labor Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips said the program could be a lifesaver, pushing people to spark up a conversation with their GPs.

“It really wasn’t surprising to see the results, because there are so many people out there that don’t have their heart health checked regularly,” Phillips said.

More than a thousand people took part in the free program, with nearly 40 per cent of participants being referred to their GPs for management or treatment.

“Tragically, one Australian dies every 12 minutes from cardiovascular disease, so with more than a third of Gilmore participants referred to their doctor for a follow-up, you can see how these free checks could definitely save lives,” Phillips continued. 

According to the 2021 Census, 5.3 per cent of Kiama’s population have some form of heart disease, including angina. 

The Shane Warne Legacy provides free self-service medical grade health checks with a focus on cardiovascular health. 

Jackson Warne, son of Shane Warne and the Shane Warne Legacy Ambassador, said the health checks could give someone the gift of a healthy future.

“The peace of mind you have once you know your numbers is very reassuring and could save your life,” Warne said.