The results of the Galway health and well-being survey has highlighted that despite high levels of binge drinking Galway citizens rate their general health very well.
The survey was undertaken in the city by 587 respondents. It revealed that 81 per cent of Galway residents rated their general health as either excellent, very good, or good. However two out of five people reported binge drinking once a week or more, and only nine per cent said they eat the recommended five or more daily portions of fruit and vegetables.
The top three issues identified to making Galway a better place to live are reduced traffic, increased safety, and increased facilities.
In terms of their own health and quality of life, the top three issues from respondents are increased physical activity, healthy diet and quitting smoking.
In the survey respondents also identified solutions to issues such as exercise groups for women, cooking courses, promotion of cycling and walking, support for unemployed people to quit smoking, and promotion of existing facilities.
The survey, which is the most comprehensive survey on health and well-being in Galway city, was conducted by the Health Promotion Research Centre in NUIG through funding from dormant accounts. The survey examined a range of issues that affect people including transport, sense of belonging, mental health, crime and safety, access and quality of services, and general health and lifestyle factors such as alcohol, smoking, exercise and nutrition.
Fiona Donovan, Coordinator of the Healthy Cities Project, explained how important the survey is to improve the health and well-being of people living in Galway, “We need to know what the issues are and have an indication of people’s beliefs on what is affecting them in everyday life. This information is also a requirement from the World Health Organisation as part of our involvement with the European Healthy Cities project
