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The face Northeastern Ontario is wrinkling more every day

North East LHIN News Release *********************** The face of Northeastern Ontario is wrinkling more every day – and those lines have an impact on local health care programs and services.
North East LHIN
News Release

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The face of Northeastern Ontario is wrinkling more every day – and those lines have an impact on local health care programs and services.



A recent health profile by the North East NE LHIN paints a picture of the region’s ever changing demographics and details high rates of chronic disease in Northeastern Ontario, a lower life expectancy, and population characteristics such as the largest proportion of Francophone population of all LHINs, at 23%.



According to the 2006 census, the population for the NE LHIN is 551,691. The projected population figure from the 2011 population census data is 563,590 – or about 4.5 per cent of the province. However, we continue to experience a dramatic shift in the number of people aged 65 and over – and that’s cause for thoughtful planning by the LHIN and our health care partners.



Today, about one in every five residents is 65 or better.



Although the region’s population is projected to hold steady at 1% growth between now and 2036, the number of people age 65 and over is predicted to increase from 18% to 30% -- 42% more seniors than we have now.



The North East LHIN is currently developing priorities for its 2013-2016 strategic plan and the population profile information is critical.




FACTS

· Last week, the NE LHIN hosted a visit by Dr. Samir Sinha, lead for the province’s Seniors Care Strategy. Dr. Sinha is seeking input for the development of a provincial Seniors Strategy.



· In October, the LHIN will host a second annual Chronic Disease Prevention & Management Conference. Registrations are now being accepted at www.nelhin.on.ca.



· Relative to the provincial average, the NE LHIN has a higher number of people who are: overweight or obese, have diabetes, smoke daily, are heavy drinkers, have high blood pressure, and have asthma.

· Northeastern Ontario has a lower proportion of people who: are satisfied with life, perceive their health as very good or excellent, consume fruit/vegetables, have a medical doctor.



· The prostate cancer rate is lower for Northeastern Ontario. Unfortunately, NE LHIN residents have higher incidence rates in breast, colorectal and lung cancers, when compared to the province.

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