Health assessments find many WA Police have health risks WA Police health assessment shows huge health risks for officers due to poor lifestyle. Picture: Theo Fakos Source: PerthNow MORE than half of WA Police staff are at risk of heart problems because of poor lifestyle decisions, according to an annual medical snapshot of staff. The latest health assessments for WA Police found one in 10 staff had "high levels" of depression, one in four had high blood pressure and more than half had an increased coronary risk ratio. "A high coronary risk ratio is a result of low HDL cholesterol levels and elevated triglyceride levels, which is often caused by poor lifestyle decisions including hazardous alcohol intake, low levels of physical activity and unhealthy food choices," the report said. Regular aerobic exercise, moderate alcohol intake and a nutritional, well-balanced diet inclusive of 'healthy' unsaturated fats can help reduce LDL and triglyceride levels. The snapshot of the force was taken from 352 police staff, which included 70 per cent officers and 30 per cent administration staff. It highlighted several "significant health issues" among respondents and revealed that 52 per cent were overweight or obese, 25 per cent had high blood pressure and 20 per cent had high levels of blood glucose. Twenty-eight per cent were listed as high-risk drinkers. High levels of depression increased from 1.9 per cent in 2011-12 to 9.3 per cent in 2012-13. High levels of anxiety doubled from 3.4 per cent to 7.2 per cent. A spokeswoman for the Police Commissioner said peer support officers and a dedicated health and welfare unit monitored the welfare of police staff. She said a generous medical scheme meant staff could access medical help at no cost for physical and mental health conditions. Policing can be a difficult and stressful occupation. The reality is that this is unavoidable and it requires a certain level of resilience," she said. Since the commissioner was appointed in 2004, gymnasiums have become part of the standard building code for new police stations. These facilities, now more than 100 statewide, are free and police are encouraged to use them. Rates of obesity, smoking and drinking have remained steady in the past two years. The Fit for Life assessments were carried out by external company Kinetic Health. Opposition police spokeswoman Michelle Roberts said more support should be provided to officers experiencing anxiety and depression. "The Government cannot continue to just brush these issues under the carpet and ignore them," she said.